HC Deb 23 June 1972 vol 839 c208W
Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what further action he proposes to take to curtail the prescription of new drugs indiscriminately which may provide symptomatic relief but inhibit the diagnosis of the underlying disease.

Mr. Alison

None. The decision which drug to prescribe for a particular patient is a matter for the professional judgment of the doctor concerned; but my Department's regional medical officers are in regular touch with general practitioners about prescribing matters.

Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a study of the use of Fenfluramine and Diethylpropion by general medical practitioners and its efficacy to reducing weight.

Mr. Alison

No. I do not consider that the action called for is necessary.