HC Deb 17 February 1927 vol 202 c1117W
Brigadier-General BROOKE

asked the Minister of Health whether his medical officers are still recommending the use of insulin for the treatment of diabetes; and whether, in view of the attacks now being made on this remedy, he will define the position of his Department?

Mr. NEVILLE CHAMBERLAIN

It is not ordinarily part of the duties of medical officers of the Ministry to make recommendations in regard to treatment, though regional medical officers may occasionally offer suggestions at the request of an insurance practitioner. As regards the second part of the question, I am advised that the administration of insulin is unquestionably of great value in suitable cases. I may add that the mortality rate from diabetes does not appear to be increasing, although the number of deaths from this disease naturally tends to increase with the increase in the population.