§ Mrs. Ann WintertonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will make a statement outlining her policy on the future funding of the joint breastfeeding initiative.
§ Mr. SackvilleThe joint breastfeeding initiative (JBI) was launched in October 1988 as a means of bringing together representatives from the voluntary breastfeeding organisations and relevant health care professions. The JBI's remit was to increase the prevalence and duration of breastfeeding through professional and public education about the benefits to be gained from breastfeeding and to making it more socially acceptable. It has received a section 64 project grant from the Department since its inception. The rules of the section 64 scheme mean the funding of the JBI in its present form is due to end later this year.
The structure, management and purpose of all four voluntary breastfeeding organisations have recently been examined as part of the Department's on-going review of bodies it funds. Discussions on the outcome of these reviews and future arrangements are under way with all relevant organisations.
It remains the Government's policy to protect and promote breastfeeding as the best means of nurturing infants. We will seek to build on the achievements of the JBI when deciding future arrangements.
§ Mrs. Ann WintertonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what support is being given by her Department to national breastfeeding week from 18 to 23 May.
§ Mr. SackvilleResponsibility for organising national breastfeeding week rests with the joint breastfeeding initiative (JBI). Since its launch in October 1988, the JBI has received financial support from the Department totalling some £142,000. The Department has always given support for national breastfeeding week which plays a valuable role in raising public awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding.