HC Deb 02 February 1959 vol 599 cc10-1W
88. Mr. Edelman

asked the Minister of Health what action his Department is taking to stimulate competition by suppliers of antibiotics, psycho-active drugs, and corticosteroids to hospitals under his control, with a view to reducing the prices of such drugs.

Mr. Walker-Smith

Practically all antibiotics are supplied to hospitals on central contracts placed by my Department and the manufacturers are constantly being pressed to reduce prices. For the rest hospital authorities are encouraged to extend joint contracting schemes for the purchase of all supplies including drugs with a view to stimulating competition and securing the best value for money.