HC Deb 10 March 1978 vol 945 cc801-2W
Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will make a further statement on his Department's discussions with Distillers Company and others with regard to the Y list children;

(2) what arrangements he has made for the review of the 'Y' list of suspected thalidomide victims; and who are to whom representations can be made.

Mr. Alfred Morris

In my repy to a Question from my hon. Friend the Member for Stoke-on-Trent, South (Mr. Ashley) on 15th December 1977—[Vol. 941, c.583]—I made it clear that I would give whatever help I could to resolve outstanding problems. I have now appointed Sir Alan Marre, the former Ombudsman, to undertake an independent review of the remaining cases on the Y list. His terms of reference are: To consider what further steps it may be equitable and reasonable for the Distillers Company Limited to take in relation to any of the outstanding Y list cases, and to make recommendations.

My appointment has been made with the full agreement of the Chairman of the Distillers Company Limited and of the hon. Member for Reading, South (Dr. Vaughan) who is the Chairman of the Medical Assessment Panel. I am most grateful to Sir Alan for undertaking this complex task and am sure that everyone will share my concern that all of the young people concerned should have their claims assessed fully and independently as quickly as possible. The address to which representations to Sir Alan should be made is as follows: The Personal Assistant to Sir Alan Marre, c/o Department of Health and Social Security, Room 835, Euston Tower, 286 Euston Road, London N.W.I.