§ Mr. Kinnockasked the Secretary of State for Wales (1) if, in view of representations made by interested parties in Wales, he will review the period laid down for re-examination for cervical cytology, and reduce it from the present five years;
(2) if he will provide for an increase in laboratory accommodation and personnel, in order to expand the cervical cytology examination system and reduce the period of examination from the present five-year interval.
§ Mr. Peter ThomasA committee of experts is currently reviewing the period between routine re-examination for cervical cytology. I await its advice The committee has recently advised an extension of these examinations to women under the age of 35 who have had three or more pregnancies. Following consultations with the health professions and associations my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services and I have accepted its advice. Appropriate laboratory facilities will be provided.