§ Mr. Blackburnasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what is his policy on the supply of contraceptives to school children in the Dudley area health authority without the consent, knowledge, or approval of the parents of such children.
(2) how many school children receive family planning and contraceptive facilities in the Dudley area health authority; and what is the cost of providing these facilities.
§ Dr. VaughanI am aware of public concern, implied by my hon. Friend's questions, over the way in which existing guidance relating to family planning services for young persons of school age may be interpreted in some instances. My right hon. Friend intends in due course to consider whether there is a need for additional or revised guidance to be issued to health authorities in this respect.
I have made special inquiries about the position in the Dudley area. I understand that in 1978 only 15 children aged 16 and under in the area attended family planning clinics, of whom the majority received no contraceptive supplies. Those 723W who received supplies were either accompanied by their parents or had their written consent. Figures of costs are not available.