§ Mrs. Joyce Butlerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent the health problems of hyperactive children have been considered by his Department; and what conclusions have been reached as to the beneficial effects, or otherwise, of a diet free from artificial additives in keeping this condition under control.
§ Mr. MoyleI am aware of the problems of children suffering from hyper-activity and of the difficulties faced by their families. Opinions differ over whether it can be regarded as a distinct syndrome. There are several approaches to its treatment, of which one involves an additive-free diet. Medical opinion is divided on the efficacy or otherwise of additive-free diets in this context and many experienced clinicians do not accept 617W that this treatment is, or necessarily is, the right answer for the majority of such cases.
In considering the needs of these children we have concluded that the immediate need is for more research. My Department would be happy to consider funding any soundly based studies into the subject.