§ 10. Mr. John Hallasked the Minister of Health why the gross cost per prescription over the years 1960–62 has risen by 20 per cent.
§ Mr. PowellElimination of items obtainable under about 2s.; prescription of larger quantities in chronic cases; increased use of more effective and expensive drugs; rising costs generally.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonWould the right hon. Gentleman not also care to add as a contributory cost that doctors are prescribing for longer periods in order to offset as far as possible the doubled prescription charge which was introduced at the beginning of this period?
§ Mr. PowellI stated that in my answer. I said,"Prescription of larger quantities in chronic cases." I am glad that this is being done. It is to the advantage of the Service as well as the patient.