Shortages of LA

Sir, I read with some interest the article on the various local anaesthetics in use in general practice (BDJ 2005; 199: 784–787), this after assigning a member of staff to secure a new supply of any available local anaesthetic for our practice. Our usual supplier was out of stock of all local anaesthetic products when we rang, but we did eventually manage to secure a small delivery from a company based in the extreme south-east of England of its own brand product. Shortages of LA have been a matter of concern here since early 2005 and I understand from a conversation with a dental rep that shortages are expected until at least mid-2006. What use is an evidence base in these circumstances? I have yet to see a comment or statement from the trade on the matter. Is this not absolutely appalling? Why can't these people get their house in order?