HC Deb 16 January 1979 vol 960 cc712-3W
Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will discuss with the World Health Organisation the sale to developing countries by multinational companies of drugs which are banned in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Ennals

Yes, I have asked the United Kingdom representatives at the WHO discussions on the action programme on essential drugs for developing countries to see that this aspect is taken into account.

Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will bring forward legislation to ban the export of drugs which are banned from domestic use within the United Kingdom.

Mr. Ennals

I am not convinced that it would be right that decisions taken in the light of circumstances prevailing in this country should deny other countries the opportunity of deciding for themselves what medicines are necessary or desirable, particularly where conditions, such as the availability of medical services. endemic disease, climate and diet, are quite different.