§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the operation of drug trials, the provision of information concerning risks associated with drug trials to volunteers, and arrangements for compensation in the event of death, illness, or injury to a volunteer as a result of drug trials; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeWe would strongly disapprove of any programme of drug testing which did not comply with existing guidelines. These recommend that volunteers be provided with a full explanation of the proposed procedure, including the risks, and suggest a basis for compensation in the event of drug-induced injury. We are awaiting updated advice from the Working Party set up by the Royal College of Physicians and from the Medicines Commission on what, if any, further control measures are required.