§ Mrs. ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will implement a moratorium on the use of silicone breast implants until the review on their use has been completed; and if he will introduce an immediate directive ensuring that all plastic surgeons only operate when the patient has given their informed consent. [2300]
§ Mr. Boateng[holding answer 6 June 1997]: An independent expert group has on two occasions (in 1992 and 1994) found no evidence of a link between silicone breast implants and connective tissue disease. In view of the renewed concerns of patients the Department of Health has now set up a further review (May 1997). This will look particularly at issues relating to preoperative advice and counselling to patients. However, the scientific evidence does not currently suggest the need for a moratorium or immediate directives to plastic surgeons. Further action will be considered in the light of the review findings.
§ Mrs. ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will publish the names of the experts on the panel of the review of the use of silicone breast implants.[2301]
§ Mr. Boateng[holding answer 6 June 1997]: The names of the members of the Independent Review Group are as follows:
- Professor R. D. Sturrock (Chairman): Professor of Rheumatology
- Professor R. Batchelor: Professor of Immunology
- Professor Alan Silman: Professor of Epidemiology
- Mr. T. M. Milward: Consultant Plastic Surgeon
27 - Professor J. P. Sloane: Professor of Histopathology
- Professor D. R. London: Formerly Professor of Medicine.