§ Dr. Broughtonasked the Minister of Health what is the present annual cost to the National Health Service of drugs and dressings; and how much of this sum represents the payment of Purchase Tax.
§ Mr. BevanIn the 12 months ended 31st May, 1950, a total sum of £32,826,278 was paid to general medical practitioners and chemists for the provision of pharmaceutical services. It is estimated that Purchase Tax accounted for about 1 per cent. of this amount.