§ Sandra OsborneTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures are being taken to promote guidance on, and the benefits of breast feeding to new mothers in the hospital setting. [157998]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonThe NHS Priorities and Planning Framework target to increase breastfeeding initiation rates by two percentage points a year between 2003 and 2006, focussing on disadvantaged groups, supported by the Commission for Health Improvement's Infant Health Indicator, will encourage primary care trusts and their maternity services to promote breastfeeding in the hospital setting.
The Department provides advice and guidance on breastfeeding and related issues to mothers and health professionals through a variety of publications. In addition, the Department will be providing advice and guidance, drawing from existing best practice, to health professionals as part of this year's National Breastfeeding Awareness Week between 9 and 15 May.