§ 31. Dr. Dickson Mabonasked 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. StodartHospital 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. MabonWhile 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. StodartIt is at the discretion of regional hospital boards to supply disposable syringes to general practitioners for hospital laboratory purposes.
§ Dr. MabonOn 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.