HC Deb 27 November 1961 vol 650 cc28-9
38. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that several local authorities have experienced a shortage of polio vaccine during the past month, with consequent delays in vaccinations; and what steps are being taken to provide an adequate supply.

41. Mr. Ainsley

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that a sufficient supply of anti-polio vaccine is not available throughout the whole of the county of Durham; what action he is taking to increase supplies; and if he will make a statement.

42. Mr. Grey

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that anti-polio vaccine stocks in Durham are very low and that fresh supplies are not expected till January; and if he will take immediate steps to see that the present stocks are increased.

56. Mr. Montgomery

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne has insufficient stocks of poliomyelitis vaccine to meet requirements; and if he will take steps to ensure that further supplies of this vaccine are made available.

57. Mr. R. W. Elliott

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that supplies of poliomyelitis vaccine are insufficient to carry out vaccinations required in Newcastle-upon-Tyne; and if he will ensure adequacy of supplies throughout the country.

Mr. Powell

I am aware that supplies to authorities have been less than the amounts requested. All available sources are being drawn on and a material improvement is expected in the next few weeks. Meanwhile if a local authority has particular difficulty I will see if I can help.

Mr. Awbery

Will the Minister say what preparations have been made to get a reserve of this vaccine in certain areas so that when an epidemic occurs an area can be supplied immediately instead of having to wait for a supply?

Mr. Powell

The primary use of this vaccine is as routine immunisation. I do not think that it would have much immediate relevance to an epidemic, Orders have been placed, and I expect the supply position to be reasonably satisfactory in the fairly near future.

Mr. Ainsley

Is the Minister aware that there were two recent notified cases quite near my own home and that the parents were much concerned when they were informed that no vaccine was available, and that it was found on inquiry that none was available throughout the whole of the country? Is that the way to treat our young people when these infections are prevalent in an area?

Mr. Powell

That is not in accordance with my information. Several consignments have recently been sent to County Durham.

Mr. Grey

Why do people have to be frightened to death before anything is done? Do not the people deserve better treatment and better protection? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a general feeling in the country that be has fallen down on his job and is responsible for the present position? Will he clearly tell the House whether he expects any more vaccine so that there may be supplies available for the whole country?

Mr. Powell

There will be further supplies next month, and I expect the position to be relatively normal in January. Meanwhile, wherever any local authority has a particular difficulty, I should be glad to learn of it, for I may be able to help.