HC Deb 14 July 1959 vol 609 cc195-6
22. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many clinics exist in Scotland to provide for the special therapy of migraine under the National Health Service.

Mr. Maclay

It is not the practice in Scottish hospitals to arrange special clinics for the treatment of migraine, and I have no evidence of any demand.

Mr. Rankin

Surely that practice can be reversed? Why does the Secretary of State run away from this problem? Does he realise that in the United Kingdom some 3 million people suffer from migraine, and has he any idea of the figures as they apply to Scotland? Will he not think again about this problem because of its incidence and the upset it causes not only in professional but also in industrial life?

Mr. Maclay

I have great sympathy for those who suffer from this very distressing complaint. I understand, however, that neither the number of patients nor the methods of clinical treatment, which is important, would make special clinics desirable.