§ 23. Mr. Farrasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what amount of Government money was expended on financing cancer research in the last financial year.
§ 60. Mr. Buchananasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science, what 612 was the amount of Government grant given to finance cancer research in the year 1963–64.
§ Mr. R. E. PrenticeThe amount spent by the Medical Research Council specifically on cancer research in 1963–64 was approximately £950,000. Further support from public funds for cancer research was provided through the University Grants Committee and the National Health Service but it is not possible to provide a reliable estimate of the amounts involved. Much basic research which may well throw light on problems of this disease, was also supported out of public funds.
§ Mr. FarrIs the hon. Gentleman aware that, last year, about £53 million was spent on dental care and only £2 million on research into a certain form of cancer from which women suffer? Does the hon. Gentleman think that sufficient money is being spent on this matter? Does not he think that more ought to be channelled into research into cancer in all its forms?
§ Mr. PrenticeThe total grant in aid to the Medical Research Council for the coming financial year will be increased. I cannot say in advance how much will be devoted to cancer and how much to other types of research. Certainly, the total will be increased. The question of priorities is largely a medical question, on which I should not attempt to lay down any rules.
Mr. BuchanWould my hon. Friend consider imposing a compulsory levy on the tobacco companies equivalent to the Government grant towards cancer research?
§ Mr. PrenticeI had not considered that, but no doubt my right hon. Friends concerned will note the idea. I cannot make any comment.