HC Deb 15 December 1981 vol 15 cc103-4W
Dr. Roger Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to require all antenatal cases to be referred to hospital for clinical tests to detect potential foetal abnormalities.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

No. The screening procedures to be applied to a particular mother are a matter for the clinical judgment of the doctor who advises her about her care. It is for health authorities, after discussion with their medical staff, to decide which screening tests should be available to mothers attending antenatal clinics.