AIDS

HC Deb 07 April 1987 vol 114 cc186-7W

18. Mr. Roger King

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions he has had with Church leaders on the campaign to combat AIDS.

Mr. Newton

We have had several very helpful meetings and a range of other contacts with religious leaders to discuss the problem of AIDS and measures to prevent its spread. They have been both understanding and constructive and we look forward to continuing and building upon this relationship.

23. Mr. Stern

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many representations he has received in response to the television series on AIDS.

Mr. Newton

We are aware of only one letter received by the Department related directly to the recent programmes produced by the television broadcasting authorities. However, we understand that research undertaken by the authorities themselves has shown a generally very favourable response.

30. Mr. Greenway

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a further statement on measures proposed and being taken to prevent the spread of AIDS.

Mr. Newton

I refer my hon. Friend to my right hon. Friend's reply to my hon. Friend, the Member for Berkshire, East (Mr. MacKay) earlier today.

46. Mr. Ron Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many people died from AIDS during 1986 and in 1987 to date.

Mr. Newton

The number of deaths due to AIDS which were reported to the Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre in 1986 is 153. By 28 February 1987 another 84 AIDS cases were reported as having died.

47. Dr. Michael Clark

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what National Health Service funds are being diverted away from existing services in order to provide care and nursing facilities for AIDS patients; what effect this will have on hospital waiting lists; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Newton

Allocations to health authorities in England in 1987–88 provide for an increase of £631 million, 1.5 per cent. above forecast general inflation. This includes £25 million under the waiting list initiative, which is expected to produce about 100,000 additional operations. They will also retain the benefit of cash released through their cost improvement programmes, which are planned to achieve £150 million in the current year. The estimated cost of hospital care of patients with AIDS in England in 1987–88 is £12 million to £24 million, of which £4.4 million has been provided centrally to the three regions which together treat some 75 per cent. of cases.