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In pictures

Thalidomide and society

The late 1950s saw the introduction of the drug thalidomide in the market, leading to one of the worst medical disasters in history. It is estimated more than 24,000 babies were born worldwide with congenital disabilities as a result. Government records reveal its far-reaching impact.

Important information

This page features documents that contain outdated and derogatory descriptions of disabled people. Original language is preserved here to accurately represent our records and to help us fully understand the past.

The classification of Distaval (thalidomide)

A typed document with a molecular diagram of a drug, describing the contents and use of thalidomide.
Date
1958
Catalogue reference
MH 133/483
A typed document with a molecular diagram of a drug, describing the contents and use of thalidomide.

Copies of data sheets from the Distillers Company

Typed document listing the marketing plans, wholesale and retail prices of thalidomide.
Date
1958
Catalogue reference
MH 154/746
Typed document listing the marketing plans, wholesale and retail prices of thalidomide.

Marketing leaflet for Distaval

Printed leaflet with Distavel in large letters in the middle.
Date
1960
Catalogue reference
MH 135/109
Printed leaflet with Distavel in large letters in the middle.

Ministry of Health Circular

A typed letter headed Ministry of Health.
Date
17 May 1962
Catalogue reference
MH 119/16
A typed letter headed Ministry of Health.

Letter from Medical Officer of Health for Woking about thalidomide cases in their area

Copy of a typed letter with redactions from the Health Department of Woking.
Date
25 September 1962
Catalogue reference
MH 148/61
Copy of a typed letter with redactions from the Health Department of Woking.

Letter from an MP to the Ministry of Health about a thalidomide-affected baby in his constituency

Typed letter with 'My dear Enoch' hand written at the top.
Date
29 May 1962
Catalogue reference
MH 135/109
Typed letter with 'My dear Enoch' hand written at the top.

Posters calling for the public to boycott the Distillers products

A poster urging people to boycott Gordon's and Booth's for their connection to Distillers Company.
Date
1972–1973
Catalogue reference
MEPO 26/403
A poster urging people to boycott Gordon's and Booth's for their connection to Distillers Company.

Letter from journalist John Pilger to Alfred Morris, Minister for the Disabled

A typed letter on Daily Mirror headed paper.
Date
14 January 1978
Catalogue reference
MH 154/1190
A typed letter on Daily Mirror headed paper.

Letter regarding research into thalidomide's effectiveness as a treatment for a complication of leprosy

A typed letter.
Date
27 August 1978
Catalogue reference
FD 23/4181
A typed letter.

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