§ Ms PrimaroloTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how many vasectomies were performed in each of the last five years;
(2) how many female sterilisation procedures were carried out in each of the last five years;
(3) if female sterilisation and vasectomy procedures are available in all areas in the country.
§ Mr. SackvilleInformation on the number of national health service procedures performed is shown in the table:
Year Vasectomies Female sterilisation procedures 1988–89 25,856 27,384 1989–90 38,507 42,023 1990–91 37,221 40,210 1991–92 35.968 42,596 There is some doubt as to the quality of the data for the year 1988–89 due to this being the first year of operation of the health episode statistics computer system. No figures are available prior to 1988–89. Figures for years 1990–91 and 1991–92—the most recent year for which figures are available—are provisional.
Circulars EL(91)63 and HSG(92)6 reminded the NHS of the need to provide a comprehensive family planning service, including male and female sterilisation.
Copies of the guidance will be placed in the Library.