§ Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Health how many local authorities have been requested to publicise the findings of the Medical Research Council on the risks of smoking; how many have done so; how many have requested the Central Council for Health Education for available leaflets and posters; and what further action it is proposed to take to warn the public of the dangers of cancer through smoking.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThe 146 county and county borough councils in England and Wales who are responsible for health education under the National Health Service Act, 1946, were invited in June to publicise the findings of the Medical Research Council on the risks of smoking. According to my information, over half of them have already taken or decided on action in one form or another, and most of the rest are now considering the matter. So far 85 local health authorities have ordered publicity material from the Central Council for Health Education. It is too soon to judge what further action is needed, but I am keeping the position under review.