§ 13. Mr. K. Robinsonasked the Minister of Health if, in view of the twelve months' experience following the introduction of the 2s. prescription charge, which indicates a fall of nearly 14 per cent. in the number of prescriptions dispensed, he will now reduce the charge.
§ Mr. PowellNo, Sir.
§ Mr. RobinsonWould not the right hon. Gentleman agree that unless there was serious over-prescribing by doctors up to March, 1961, this fall, which is about seven times what he estimated, must mean one of two things—either that many patients are not getting the drugs they need or that there is greatly increased resort to self-medication, both of which are to be deplored? Will he think again about this matter and do something?
§ Mr. PowellNo, I do not agree. There is big fluctuation, in any case, from year to year in the number of prescriptions. If the three previous years are taken into account, the drop is only 6 per cent., which is fully accounted for by the elimination of prescriptions costing under 2s. and the very proper increase in prescriptions for longer periods.
§ Mr. RobinsonWhen we raised this matter earlier in the year, the right hon. 18 Gentleman said that he wanted twelve months' experience. Does he now want three years' experience? When that has expired, will he ask for seven years' experience?
§ Mr. PowellNo. But we must watch experience as we go along. There is no evidence that these charges are causing hardship or that anyone is not getting the medicine he should be getting.
§ Mrs. BraddockDoes the right hon. Gentleman make any inquiries about how many prescriptions are issued but not dispensed? Is there any record kept as between prescription and actual dispensation? I am informed that often, when patients see how much their prescriptions will cost, they do not go to the chemists and thus do not obtain the necessary medicine.
§ Mr. PowellI would be glad to look at any specific case to which the hon. Lady can refer me. I do not, off hand, see how one could obtain figures for prescriptions made out but not taken to the chemists, but I will see if there is any way in which we can get a line on that.
§ Mr. DugdaleCan the right hon. Gentleman say whom he has asked for evidence and what kind of evidence he has sought?
§ Mr. PowellI have repeatedly said, in this House and elsewhere, that I will examine instances brought to my attention, from whatever quarter, where it appears, on the face of it, that these charges have prevented people from obtaining necessary medicines. I repeat that.