§ Mr. LeadbitterTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the arrangements in the Hartlepool health authority area for the detection, monitoring, and follow-up procedures in respect of cervical cancer.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyThe main strategy for dealing with cervical cancer is through a programme of early detection based on population screening programmes. In Hartlepool, a computerised call and recall system was implemented on schedule to meet the Department's target date of 31 March 1988. I understand that the district is meeting the Department's target for reporting results of cervical smears to the smear-taker within one month. The district recalls women on a three-yearly basis and has implemented a failsafe system to ensure that women with abnormalities are followed up. In addition, the necessary surgical and pathological facilities are in place to facilitate the further investigation and treatment of such women. The Northern region is making good progress on quality assurance in the laboratories.