§ 8. Mr. StrangTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether the anonymised screening programme for HIV is being extended; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyThe first results of the anonymised HIV surveys have provided valuable information about the prevalence of HIV infection in England. The number of participating clinics will increase throughout England and Wales as the surveys continue.
§ Mr. StrangWill the Minister confirm that "anonymised" screening is truly anonymous, and that there is no way in which a positive result can be traced back to any individual? Does she agree that the programme will provide valuable information only if it covers a wide enough spread of the population and if that spread is maintained for a number of years?
§ Mrs. BottomleyThe screening survey has already proved its usefulness in allowing us to plan services and the development of preventive measures. I can confirm that the testing is entirely anonymous. It is essential that we have fact, not fantasy, on which to work in dealing with the spread of HIV and AIDS which are, after all, the most serious threat to public health this century. That is why we have made it clear from the outset that special resources should he directed deliberately towards research, prevention and services.