§ 8. Mrs. Joyce Butlerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what advice she has received from her special advisers on the early detection of breast cancer as to the viability of a screening programme for women at risk using the new diagnostic techniques which are now available; and if she will make a statement.
§ Dr. OwenI have not yet received the report of the joint working group set up by the Standing Medical Advisory Committee to advise on screening for breast cancer. I have promised my hon. Friend that I will keep her informed of the conclusions we reach.
§ Mrs. ButlerIs it not unfortunate that the Department's special adviser should make such a pessimistic broadcast just at the time when my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is preparing a White Paper on preventive medicine? Will my hon. Friend give an assurance that the views of those who are pressing for more early diagnostic clinics with up-to-date techniques for all women at risk will equally be taken into account in the White Paper when it is published?
§ Dr. OwenI can give my hon. Friend that assurance. We are hoping to produce a consultative document on all aspects of preventive medicine some time 220 next year and we will be looking at this matter, but I hope to make a statement on the specific problem of breast screening rather earlier than that.