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Teething Powders

Volume 498: debated on Thursday 10 April 1952

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62.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the widespread sale of children's teething powders containing mercury although no reference to the mercury content appears in the printed analysis; and whether he will take steps to ensure that a full description of such contents is made a condition of sale in future.

If the hon. Member will give me particulars of the cases he has in mind I will bring them to the attention of the Pharmaceutical Society, who have the duty of enforcing the appropriate section of the Pharmacy and Medicines Act, 1941.

63.

asked the Minister of Health whether he will make inquiries into the effects on children's health arising from the widespread use of teething powders containing mercury, and give such publicity as may be necessary in the interests of parents and children to the result of his inquiries.

Inquiries are already in progress at various children's hospitals. Although indiscriminate use of teething powders is clearly undesirable, there is not yet definite evidence to justify general publicity.