32. Mrs. Butlerasked the Minister of Health, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what estimate he has made of the incidence of nickel dermatitis; and what investigation has been made as to the cause and prevention of this complaint.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThe incidence of nickel dermatitis has not been exactly assessed, but it seems to be a fairly common form of dermatitis, particularly among women. People who are sensitive to the metal may develop dermatitis after contact with some nickelplated item of apparel. It can only be prevented by avoiding contact with nickel.
Mrs. ButlerCould the Minister look at the possibility of discussing this with the manufacturers of zip fasteners and costume jewellery, which trigger off these attacks of dermatitis, to see whether it is not possible to do more in the way of covering the metal with enamel, or providing a substitute in the form of plastic, since this is a very widespread complaint among women and seems to be growing?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithI will certainly consider what the hon. Lady has said to see whether there is any advice which it is both possible and appropriate for me or any of my right hon. Friends to give in this context.