§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many meetings he, his Ministers and his66W Department's officials have had with representatives of the medical and health professions on the subject of smoking since 1 January 1988; if he will list the dates, venues and purpose of each meeting; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorDepartment of Health Ministers or officials have not met with representatives of the health professions specifically to discuss smoking. There have, however, been frequent meetings with our expert advisory committees, including the Independent Scientific Committee on Smoking and Health, with the Health Education Authority and with bodies with an interest in the health aspects of smoking such as ASH. Ministers receive advice on the medical aspects of smoking from the chief medical officer and his staff.