HC Deb 16 March 1971 vol 813 c272W
51. Mr. Scott-Hopkins

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many deaths have occurred during the past five years of patients of dentists practising intravenous anaesthesia; what consultations he has had with the British Dental Asociation; and if he will make a statement.

Sir K. Joseph

In the five years 1965–69 there were 32 registrations of death associated with general dental anaesthesia, and in 11 of these Methohexitone or similar intravenous anaesthetic agents were mentioned.

Following consultation with the British Dental Association, I shall shortly be making regulations requiring that any form of general anaesthetic for dental treatment provided under the General Dental Services shall be administered, except in an emergency, by a practitioner other than the operating dentist.