§ 19. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health if he will promote research into the problem of obesity, with a view to publicising its danger and remedy; and if he will take steps to prevent the exploitation of this affliction through the sale of dubious medicines or methods of cure.
§ Mr. PowellI am informed that research into some aspects is being promoted by the Medical Research Council; I am not aware that these remedies call for special action.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that recently it was emphatically stated that obesity is more dangerous than cigarette smoking? In view of the campaign undertaken to reduce cigarette smoking, surely this is just as necessary as the objective of the campaign which may be promoted by the 927 Ministry of Health, particularly in view of the evidence of the need for it in some parts of the House?
§ Mr. PowellI am sure that doctors do not fail to advise their patients on the dangers of obesity and the steps to be taken.