HC Deb 21 November 1960 vol 630 cc757-8
36. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that drug manufacturers include in their manufacturing expenses such promotion expenses as continental holidays offered as prizes to pharmacists; and to what extent he takes into account such expenses in approving the costs of new drugs prescribed within the National Health Service.

Mr. Powell

I am aware of one recent instance of this, but am told that the firm concerned does not intend to use this type of sales promotion in future. The costs of new drugs prescribed within the National Health Service are not subject to my approval.

Mr. Robinson

Does not the Minister agree that this type of advertising, which was indulged in by AsproNicholas in trying to introduce a new antibiotic, can only reflect adversely on the pharmaceutical industry as a whole? Will he do everything in his power, by persuasion, to see that it does not happen again?

Mr. Powell

Yes.