HL Deb 07 August 1980 vol 412 cc1755-6WA
Lord HOUGHTON of SOWERBY

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the drug reserpine has been assigned a positive classification as a carcinogenic substance in this country; and whether it is still widely used in medical treatment.

Lord CULLEN of ASHBOURNE

An association between reserpine and breast cancer has been suggested but remains unresolved. The use of the drug

budget; our percentage assessment; and the sterling/dollar exchange rate.

It is not intended to consult the dependent territories respecting their adherence until a definite decision on United Kingdom ratification has been made. While we support the aims of the convention, we have no immediate intention to ratify it because of the financial implications.