§ 15. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Health which medical establishments in this country are able to offer treatment for multiple sclerosis.
§ Mr. BraineMy right hon. Friend is advised that there is at present no effective specific treatment for this disease.
§ Mr. HyndWhy did I get the previous Answer from the Minister telling me that it was possible for treatment to be obtained in this country? Regarding the previous Answer, if treatment cannot be obtained in 'this country and there is no provision in the agreement for treatment abroad, what is the Minister doing about this disease?
§ Mr. BraineMultiple sclerosis patients needing specialist advice or treatment will be seen by general physicians or neurologists; all general hospitals have physicians who will call on specialist advice if necessary. In answer to the second part of the question, similar methods to those obtaining abroad—I know the hon. Member's interest in the Le Gacmethod of treatment—can be used in this country if doctors think it 565 advisable to use them. As I said in answer to a previous Question, it is not for my right hon. Friend to pronounce on forms of treatment. That is a matter for the doctors themselves.
§ Mr. HyndThe hon. Gentleman has told me that there is no agreement for treatment in this country. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the Answer, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter again.