§ Mr. Edwin Wainwrightasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many trained technicians in cytology are now employed in the Sheffield Regional Hospital Board's area; how many he estimates are required in order that all women of 30 years and over can be screened at least once every three years; and if he will make a statement on his future policy.
§ Mr. AlisonThere were 38.6 whole-time equivalent technicians at 30th June, 1972. If all women in the region aged 30 and over agreed to be screened every three years it is estimated that about 62 whole time equivalent technicians would be required. Our present policy is to urge cervical cytology screening primarily for women aged 35 and over every five 237W years. My right hon. Friend is considering extending this group to cover also younger women who have had three or more pregnancies.