§ Sir R. Glynasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the shortage of antiseptic lozenges and pastilles held by chemists in industrial areas; that no increase in such chemical preparations has been authorised for the winter months; that welfare officers, nurses and persons responsible for works' clinics are experiencing difficulty in procuring sulphonamide preparations in order that factory workers engaged on war production may be provided with normal precautions against illness; and whether he will inquire into this matter with a view to supplying chemists throughout the country with their requirements.
§ Mr. PeatI have been asked to reply. With regard to the first part of the Question, I have no evidence of any general shortage of antiseptic lozenges and402W pastilles in industrial areas, although in certain districts the demand may temporarily have exceeded the local supply. If my hon. Friend will give me particulars of the localities which he has in mind, I shall be glad to make further inquiries.
Sulphonamide preparations are governed by the Poisons Rules and Regulations and can be purchased only on presentation of a prescription signed by a registered medical practitioner. There has been no general shortage of these preparations, except in the case of one recently developed type for which there has been a largely increased demand from the Fighting Services