§ 28. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Health, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what progress has been made in experiments to prevent or cure the common cold; and what action is contemplated in this respect in the near future.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. R. H. Turton)Some progress has been made in recent years in research on the common cold, but as yet no means has been discovered by which the condition can be prevented or cured. The Medical Research Council is continuing, in cooperation with my Department, its efforts to solve this difficult problem.
§ Mr. DoddsIn view of the length of the experiments and the cost entailed, cannot the Minister give people like myself—I have had a cold for three weeks and cannot lose it—any advice on how to get rid of colds?
§ Mr. TurtonI am told that one very good way is to stay away from crowded places.
§ Dr. SummerskillCan the Minister tell the House the name of the tablet which he is sucking?
§ Mr. NicholsonIs my right hon. Friend aware that I have not had a cold for ten years because I take snuff?
§ Mr. TurtonIt might be snuff or it might be gin—I do not know.
§ Mr. Hector HughesIs the Minister aware that a very good way to avoid colds is to have a swim in Hampstead Pond every morning?