HC Deb 12 February 1985 vol 73 cc167-8W
Mr. Meadowcroft

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what measures he has taken to implement articles 111, 112, 117 and 132 of the 1975 world plan of action for the Decade for Women.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

The concepts outlined in articles 111, 112 and 117 are implicit in the organisation of health services in this country, and are reflected in guidance issued by our Department. The implementation of article 132 is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science.

Mr. Meadowcroft

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will list the research he has commissioned on the subject of women's health subsequent to Her Majesty's Government's reply to the United Nations End of Decade for Women questionnaire; and if he will make a statement;

(2) whether he is satisfied with the range of childcare facilities described in Her Majesty's Government's answer to question A3.2.6 of part II of the United Nations End of Decade for Women questionnaire.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

I shall let the hon. Member have replies as soon as possible.

Mr. Meadowcroft

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will revise Her Majesty's Government's response to question B1.1 of part II of the United Nations End of Decade for Women questionnaire, in view of the deaths recorded among women due to cancer of the breast.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

We are currently sponsoring a major research programme to evaluate the effectiveness of breast screening for early detection of cancer. The preliminary results of this research are expected in 1988, and it would not be appropriate to revise the response to question B1.1 of part II of the United Nations' questionnaire until then.

Mr. Meadowcroft

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether the extent of women's participation in decision-making in the health services has altered since Her Majesty's Government's response to questions B4.1 and B4.2 of part II of the United Nations End of Decade for Women questionnaire was sent; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

No.