§ 24. Mr. Liptonasked the Minister of Health whether he will introduce legislation to ban the use of hypnotism except by qualified medical practitioners.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithI do not consider that such legislation is necessary.
§ Mr. LiptonIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware of the growing exploitation by all kinds of quacks of hypnotic methods, which cannot possibly be in the public interest? Have not things come to a pretty pass if school children are being hypnotised for market research purposes to find out what kind of toys they want for Christmas? Has not the time come for the Minister to take this matter rather more seriously than he has done hitherto?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithI do not know that I can share the hon. Gentleman's expert knowledge on quack methods, but I will certainly seek to emulate the appropriate seriousness which he brings to this important subject.