HC Deb 17 July 1973 vol 860 cc239-40
9. Mrs. Joyce Butler

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action he intends to take following the recommendations of the Medicines Commission in regard to products containing vitamin A and vitamin D; and if he will make a statement.

47. Mr. McCrindle

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will take immediate steps to limit the sale of aspirins as recommended by the Medicines Commission.

Sir K. Joseph

A decision will be taken when the views of the interested organisations which are being consulted in accordance with the requirements of the Medicines Act 1968 have been received and considered.

Mrs. Butler

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that many nutritionists advocate large amounts of vitamin D, as much as 1,000 international units, for people over 65 to prevent osteo-porosis, which causes one-third of the cases of head of the femur fractures, which are so crippling to old people? Will he ensure that any action he takes does not discourage old people from taking beneficial amounts of this vitamin and does not prevent them from buying it on general sale?

Sir K. Joseph

I am grateful to the hon. Lady for her comments which I will certainly bear in mind. She will realise that there are highly qualified people advising me. I will draw what she says to their attention.