§ 13. Mr. Dribergasked the Minister of Healt what action he intends to take in respect of the unqualified eye-specialist, details of whom have been sent to him, who has advertised his services in an Essex newspaper.
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithNone, Sir, as the material so far seen does not suggest that he is breaking the law.
§ Mr. DribergWhile appreciating that there is no illegality, may I ask the hon. Lady whether she would agree that it is unfortunate that these advertisements should appear containing glowing testimonials which may raise false hopes? Will she give an assurance that there is no treatment that this man can provide which my constituents could not get equally, or better, under the National Health Service?
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithI agree with the hon. Member that the type of advertisement is most undesirable, but we are concerned only with infringement of the law, and it is, shall we say, cleverly drafted so as to not infringe the law. I agree that any necessary treatment for this type of disease is more fully, and better, provided under the National Health Service.