HC Deb 03 November 1949 vol 469 cc576-7
24. Squadron-Leader Fleming

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why his Department refused the request of Mr. Wilson H. Hey, a Manchester surgeon, that mountain rescue squads be allowed to carry ampoules of morphia for the speedy treatment of injured climbers.

25. Mr. Marples

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will introduce legislation to amend the Dangerous Drugs Acts, 1920–32, so as to permit Tubunic ampoules containing one-quarter of a grain of morphia to be added to the medical supplies left at rescue posts in mountainous areas.

Mr. Ede

In consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health I am considering whether it would be possible to make arrangements, subject to suitable safeguards, for the administration of morphine to injured climbers. I could not approve the arrangements which Mr. Hey has operated illegally since 1934, because they do not in my view provide for adequate safeguards.

Squadron-Leader Fleming

If Mr. Wilson Hey submits to the Home Secretary another plan for the carrying of this drug, would the right hon. Gentleman consider it?

Mr. Ede

Certainly, I will. I am anxious to meet the practical situation, but I cannot wink at absolute defiance of the law for 15 years.