§ 14. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions he has had with the Health Education Council about a nationwide campaign in 1973 to bring home to young people the dangers of venereal disease.
§ Mr. AlisonThe Health Education Council regards education about the dangers of venereal disease as one of its main priorities and in this it has the full support of my right hon. Friend and myself. In co-operation with two London boroughs, the council has just started an intensive pilot project; the possibility of mounting a national campaign will be considered in the light of its findings.
§ Mr. McNair-WilsonIs my hon. Friend aware that in his annual report the Medical Officer of Health for Waltham Forest quoted a 33 per cent. rise in VD cases in the borough, mainly among young people? As this figure is probably mirrored throughout the country, does my hon. Friend agree that every means must be sought to encourage young people to seek treatment?
§ Mr. AlisonI recognise that there is a disturbing increase in the incidence of gonorrhoea although, fortunately syphilis apears to be declining slightly. It is against that background that we have fully supported the pilot scheme which the Health Education Council is carrying out in London.