§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what assessment he has made of recent research in the effect of lower genital tract infection in dealing with cases of abortion; if he has any proposals to improve screening arrangements for lower genital tract infection in abortion cases; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr.Kenneth ClarkeWe are aware of recent studies. These include research being carried out by the Medical Research Council, which from its grant-in-aid under the Science Vote of the Department of Education and Science is the main Government-funded body supporting research in this field. In addition, we are considering the possibility of commissioning a study to look at the incidence and prevalence of lower genital tract infections in defined groups of women. Different tests are available for such infections, depending on the type of infection. The appropriateness of a particular test in an individual case is a matter for clinical judgement.
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