§ 49. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Health whether he will make a statement on the progress of discussions with the manufacturers of proprietary drugs prescribed in the National Health Service.
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithFollowing detailed criticisms put to it by the Health Departments of its proposals for fixing the prices of these preparations, the industry is now reviewing these proposals.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopCan the hon. Lady say when she hopes to be able to make a further statement on this matter in the House?
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithI cannot at the moment. As the hon. Member is aware, it is a tremendously intricate and difficult problem, with great variations between one firm and another in the industry and between those who do immense research and those who do none at all. My right hon. Friend has instructed that the industry should be given full opportunity of justifying or amending the proposals which have been put forward in view of the risk which precipitate and unwise action might involve for exports and for fundamental research. There has, however, been no delay on our side and we hope that before long we shall be able to reach agreement.