HC Deb 06 May 1952 vol 500 cc171-2
23. Mrs. Mann

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how far experiments are being made in Scotland with the new tuberculosis drug, isonicotinic acidhydrazide; and with what results.

Mr. J. Stuart

In co-operation with the Medical Research Council clinical investigations into the therapeutic value of this drug are being undertaken by the Research Committee of the Scottish Tuberculosis Society. Trials are planned at six Scottish hospitals prominent in the treatment of tuberculosis, but results cannot be expected for some months.

Mrs. Mann

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that while the British Medical Council has hesitated to make a definite pronouncement about this drug it can be obtained by the ordinary medical practitioner, who may pass it on to his patient irrespective of its possible effects on the patient?

Mr. Stuart

It is true that it can be prescribed by doctors; but it will not be used in hospitals under the National Health Service until these trials have been completed.

Mrs. Mann

But are not these doctors working under the National Health Service, and is it not rather risky that they should be allowed to prescribe the drug, since it has not yet been pronounced on by the B.M.C.?

Mr. Stuart

I agree with the hon. Lady. I should have thought that it would have been wiser to await the result of the trials.

37. Mr. A. C. Manuel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of persons suffering from tuberculosis who are unable to have hospital and sanatoria treatment because of the lack of accommodation and staff.

Mr. J. Stuart

The number on the waiting list for sanatorium treatment in Scotland at 31st March was 1,723.

Mr. Manuel

Would the Secretary of State communicate that answer to his hon. Friend the Joint Under-Secretary, who, in the debate last week, did not regard this problem as being of much significance? Further, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many hundreds of tuberculosis patients will have to pay for their drugs and medicines on the 1s. prescription as long as they remain outpatients?