HC Deb 27 May 1957 vol 571 cc23-4
52. Mr. Lipton

asked the Minister of Health whether he has now received a further report from the Medical Research Council on the connection between smoking and lung cancer; and what action he is taking thereon.

Mr. Vosper

I understand from my right hon. and noble Friend the Lord President of the Council that the result of the Medical Research Council's review of this subject should be available within a few weeks.

Mr. Lipton

Although this report will be a big blow to the tobacco companies and the Chancellor of the Exchequer—[HON. MEMBERS: "How do you know?"]—hon. Members will see—may we have an assurance that this time the Minister will not flout the weight of medical opinion but will take the most vigorous action to publicise the undoubted danger of lung cancer arising from cigarettes, since the time has now come when the evidence is overwhelming—and it will be reinforced, that action by the Government must be taken?

Mr. Vosper

I am not aware that either I or any of my predecessors have flouted the weight of public opinion on this issue. I think we had better await publication of the report.

Mr. Farey-Jones

In view of the interest in this matter, can my right hon. Friend inform the House whether his Department has yet made up its mind to underwrite the International Cancer Congress which is to be held in this country?

Mr. Vosper

That is a separate issue which hardly arises on this Question.