§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) what was the total sum of money provided by his Department in 1973 to assist research into possible cures for arthritis and rheumatism; and whether he will consider increasing it;
(2) whether, in view of the findings of the Industrial Survey Unit of the Arthritis and Rheumatism Council that at least 37 million working days are lost every year in Great Britain through rheumatic complaints, research will be sponsored by his Department into cures for these complaints.
§ Mr. Gerry FowlerIt is not possible to isolate a figure for research expenditure on arthritis and rheumatism. The Medical Research Council is continuing to provide support for a wide-ranging programme of research on rheumatic diseases and also for basic biological studies that may throw light on the problems of these conditions. The council recognises the need for research over a broad spectrum and has named specific areas that will receive special consideration for support.