§ Mr. David Huntasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) how many representations he has received in 1975 and 1976 up to the present date relating to the treatment of persons who are Australia Antigen positive; from whom these representations have come; and if he is satisfied with the present procedures for treatment;
(2) what are the guidelines issued by his Department to National Health Service doctors and/or dentists relating to the treatment of people who are Australia Antigen positive;
(3) what is the incidence rate of Australia Antigen positive patients in the United Kingdom.
§ Dr. OwenI am aware of two such instances, both of which concerned persons requiring dental treatment, one coming through the hon. Member and the other direct to my Department.
Guidance relating to the treatment of people who are Australia Antigen positive has been issued to the medical and dental professions. This guidance deals generally with the precautions necessary in such treatment and these are reviewed from time to time in the light of current knowledge. The precautions needed in any individual case must, however, be for the professional judgment of individual practitioners.
It is estimated that about 0.1 per cent. of the United Kingdom population is Australia Antigen positive.