HC Deb 29 May 1952 vol 501 cc1650-1
35. Dr. Jeger

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware, and whether it is on his instructions, that doctors are receiving communications from executive councils proposing surcharges in cases where cod liver oil and malt extract have been prescribed in the treatment of tuberculosis; whether he is aware that this preparation has for a long time been part of the recognised treatment in this disease, and is referred to as such in the report of the Cohen Committee; and whether he will cease penalising doctors who prescribe this preparation for their tuberculous patients.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I think there may be some misapprehension on this subject, on which I have issued no instructions. The Definition of Drugs Sub-Committee advised that, when cod liver oil and malt is used for the treatment of tuberculosis, it should be regarded as a drug. Their report also said that a doctor must be prepared to justify the ordering of the preparation as requisite for the treatment of his patient. I am proposing again to bring the report to the attention of executive councils and general practitioners.

Dr. Jeger

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask executive councils to withdraw the instructions which they have given that doctors who prescribe this preparation for their patients will be forced to go to tribunals to justify their action, as is taking place now?

Mr. Macleod

I am very grateful to the hon. Member for putting down this Question. It may be true that certain executive councils have misinterpreted what the Cohen Committee meant. The publicity given to this question and the fact that I am drawing the matter again to the attention of executive councils should cover the point which the hon. Member has in mind.

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