§ Dr. Roger Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his policy towards the general availability and licensing of injectable contraceptives that are effective for three or six months; and whether in the recent past any evidence for or against the possible carcinogenic effect of these preparations has become available.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeInjectable contraceptives are licensed by the licensing authority only where they are satisfied as to their safety, efficacy and quality. The one product of this kind currently marketed in the United Kingdom is licensed for short-term use in very limited circumstances and is available only on prescription.
Data relating to the carcinogenicity testing of progestogens, which are the active ingredients of these products, are published in the scientific literature at regular intervals. The Department is not aware of any significant new evidence published in the last six months relevant to their use as contraceptives in man.