§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will seek further control of the drug distalgesic, in the light of recent evidence of growing addiction to the drug.
§ Dr. SummerskillI have been asked to reply.
Occasional incidents of misuse of distalgesics are reported by the police and drug treatment centres. Self-poisoning through overdose, rather than addiction, seems to be the main hazard, but the situation is being carefully watched by the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs and the council will inform my right hon. Friend if action appears to be necessary.