17. Mr. H. D. Hughesasked the Minister of Health what he estimates would be the increased cost of allowing private patients to obtain drugs recommended by their doctor free of charge.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopIf the estimated annual rate of expenditure on the pharmaceutical services were proportionately increased in respect of the 5 per cent. of the population of England and Wales not on doctors' lists, the increase would amount to about £1 million.
Mr. HughesDoes not the official figure show a wild miscalculation on the part of those responsible for framing the new Tory programme? Will my right hon. Friend resist this incitement to reckless expenditure by His Majesty's Opposition?
§ Mr. BlenkinsopIt shows signs of extravagance in Tory election promises.