§ Colonel DAYasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that so-called headache and nerve powders sold by a number of small traders frequently contain acetanilyde, a drug which, if improperly used, is likely, to be dangerous, as was proved at an inquest on the body of a young woman at Trowbridge, near whose body was found a packet of a powder which contained the said drug; and is he prepared to recommend that powders containing this drug shall be placed upon the dangerous list?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I understand, however, that the evidence in the particular case quoted indicated that an excessive dose had been taken deliberately, and I am advised that it is a matter of controversy whether acetanilyde, though its action may be injurious, can properly be regarded as a poison in the ordinary sense. It does not come within the terms of the Dangerous Drugs Acts and pending legislation for the control of secret remedies I doubt whether effective steps can be taken to restrict the sale of headache powders containing this drug.