HC Deb 13 June 1972 vol 838 cc242-3W
36. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what reply he has sent to the British Medical Association to its request that he should set up an inquiry into the use and abuse of barbiturates and other sedative drugs.

Sir K. Joseph

I am still considering the association's suggestions.

Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will establish a working party to inquire into the misuse of barbiturate sleeping pills and to recommend action to deal with this problem.

Sir K. Jospeh

No. Discussions with the profession have already taken place and I am considering what further measures are necessary.

Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to ensure that all manufacturers of barbiturate preparations include in all their literature and advertisements warnings in large and distinctive type about porphyria.

Sir K. Joseph

Barbiturate preparations may only besold on prescription and are not advertised to the public. The risks of these preparations, including the precipitation of an attack of porphyria in susceptible individuals, are well known to the medical profession. I see no reason to take special steps of the kind suggested.