§ Ms HarmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what research he has(a) commissioned (b) evaluated as to the effectiveness of alpha-interferon in the treatment of hepatitis C. [3760]
§ Mr. HoramThe national health service standing group on health technology has identified the evaluation of the use of alpha-interferon in the treatment of hepatitis C as a top priority for research. The standing group's recommendations include work to assess the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of alpha-interferon in the early treatment of hepatitis C, and its use in the prevention of relapse. In addition the Medical Research Council, which 221W receives its grant-in-aid from the office of my hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade, is currently considering a proposal for research on one particular aspect of the treatment of hepatitis C. My Department is also considering further research priorities relating to hepatitis C.