§ 43. Mr. R. W. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in view of inadequate supplies of D.D.T. in some countries, what action has been taken by the United Nations Organisation and the Assembly of the World Health Organisation to ensure a better supply and a more equitable distribution of this substance.
§ Mr. NuttingThe Economic and Social Council is setting up a Working Party to examine the world position regarding the supply and requirements of D.D.T. and, if a significant shortage is disclosed, to make recommendations for the alleviation of the position.
§ Mr. SorensenIs not the hon. Gentleman aware that already information has been available showing that in some parts of the world there is a surplus of this insecticide and in other parts a grave deficiency? Under those circumstances, cannot he speed up the better distribution of this most important drug?
§ Mr. NuttingThe Working Party is due to meet next February and invitations are being issued to various members of the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. I can assure the hon. Member that no undue delay will take place in the establishment of the Working Party or its work.
§ Mr. Somerville HastingsMay I ask whether the hon. Gentleman is aware that free supplies of this drug is the best known means of preventing a world epidemic of typhus fever?
§ Mr. NuttingI am not an expert in the use of D.D.T., but I will convey the suggestion of the hon. Member to the appropriate quarter.