§ 9. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he expects to reach a decision on the proposal of the British Medical Association that he should set up an inquiry into the use and abuse of barbiturates and other sedative drugs; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir K. JosephThe suggestion by the British Medical Association was that detailed research studies should be instituted into the epidemiology, use and abuse of barbiturates and other sedative drugs. It will take some time to determine, having regard to work already done or in progress, what further studies are required and how they could best be designed and carried out.
§ Mr. DalyellIs there not prima facie evidence that the abuse of barbiturates is on the way up?
§ Sir K. JosephI cannot give an immediate answer to that question. The Government have consulted the medical profession about the possibilities of further medical self-discipline on this issue. It is in response to its reply that further studies are needed that I have given my reply to the hon. Gentleman today.
§ Dr. SummerskillWill the Secretary of State bear in mind that 20 million prescriptions a year for barbiturates are being given by doctors and that these can be and are becoming dependent drugs for both young and middle-aged people? Is he satisfied that advising doctors to prescribe carefully is sufficient to deal with this acknowledged problem?
§ Sir K. JosephNo, I am not satisfied. Discussions are in progress with the medical profession and we are awaiting the results of studies into the pattern of prescribing which are in hand.