§ 27. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Minister of Health what quantity of heroin was used in the United Kingdom in 1950, compared with 1938; and to what causes he ascribes the difference.
§ Mr. MarquandThe quantity in 1938 was 46 kilos, and in 1949 it was 136 kilos. Figures are not yet available for 1950. Diamorphine is widely used in this country as an ingredient for cough-linctus. A rise in consumption can, therefore, be attributed in part to medicinal use under the National Health Service.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerIs the Minister satisfied that that increase is due to an increase in medicinal use?
§ Mr. MarquandI am only able to reply to that part of the Question which concerns me. Other questions would more properly be referred to my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary.