HC Deb 04 March 1964 vol 690 c1298
31. Dr. Dickson Mabon

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a statement on the provision of disposable sterile syringes for the general medical services of the National Health Service.

Mr. Stodart

Hospital authorities in Scotland have been told that they may provide sterile syringes free of charge to general practitioners for taking specimens for examination in hospital laboratories.

Dr. Mabon

While I am grateful for that Answer, nevertheless it is not a reply to try Question, which is about disposable sterile syringes in general practice. Is the Under-Secretary aware that, particularly in Edinburgh, where the figures are very clear indeed—and I am told the health authorities have reported this to the Scottish Office—there is a growing incidence of jaundice arising from the use of syringes? Might it not be a good idea to adopt this suggestion as a general medical practice both in Scotland and England? Should not we in Scotland lead the way?

Mr. Stodart

It is at the discretion of regional hospital boards to supply disposable syringes to general practitioners for hospital laboratory purposes.

Dr. Mabon

On a point of order. I am very sorry, but in view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, which was not an answer to my Question, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter again.