HC Deb 18 December 1990 vol 183 c154W
Mr. Speed

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make available on prescription for diabetics suitable disposable needles for insulin pen-type injections.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

NHS supply arrangements for insulin pens and needles need to be considered together. Subject to our normal evaluation of individual brands, we would consider making pens and needles prescribable, as an alternative to syringes, if this could be done without additional cost. Discussions with suppliers are currently in progress.