HC Deb 14 July 1942 vol 381 cc1092-3W
Dr. Peters

asked the Minister of Health whether he will require the specialist researchers of the British Empire Cancer Campaign to investigate certain methods for the treatment of cancer not yet investigated by them?

Mr. E. Brown

I understand that the British Empire Cancer Campaign does not itself undertake experimental research, but in suitable cases gives financial assistance to other bodies or persons for that purpose. In any event, I should, of course, have no power to require this organisation to investigate any particular method of treatment.

Dr. Peters

asked the Minister of Health (1) whether his Department has made any investigation into the successful treatment of cancer and/or other diseases by herbal treatment; and with what results;

(2) whether his Department has any knowledge of the bio-chemical treatment of cancer and other diseases by Dr. H. D. Gilbert and others giving such treatment; whether any investigation has been made and with what results; and what steps he proposes further to investigate this method of treatment?

Mr. Brown

My advisers have no knowledge of the methods of treatment referred to. The investigation of particular methods of treatment is not a matter for my Department but, as my hon. Friend is doubtless aware, there are a number of organisations which are prepared to assist in promising lines of research. If my hon. Friend is aware of any method which in his view calls for further investigation, I shall be glad to send him a list of the organisations in question.