asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether his attention has been called to the fact that, except for the treatment of venereal disease, no penicillin is available for use in children's hospitals in the British zone of Berlin; and what action he has taken, or proposes to take, in the matter.

Since 1st December five mega units of penicillin have been made available each month to the British Sector of Berlin from official sources, for the treatment in hospitals, including children's hospitals, of serious cases of other than venereal disease. In addition 175 mega units have been allocated from very considerable supplies made available for the same purposes by "Save Europe Now", and the British medical profession. The possibility of producing penicillin under licence in Germany is being examined in consultation with the American authorities.

Is my hon. Friend aware that letters have appeared in the Press pointing out how very great the shortage is in our zone of Berlin?

There has, of course, been a very great shortage of penicillin, and it has been difficult for Germany to get into the queue at all. But I can assure my hon. Friend that supplies received since 1st December have met requirements.