HC Deb 06 April 1982 vol 21 c295W
22. Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he has held consultations with the British Medical Association to establish a code of practice in relation to the use of blood given free to the National Health Service.

33. Mr. Cowans

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will consult the General Medical Council with a view to establishing a code of practice in relation to the use of blood given free to the National Health Service.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

I am consulting the advisory committee on the National Blood Transfusion Service about arrangements for the control of blood donated to the NHS. In the light of its advice I shall consider whether wider consultations may be necessary in revising existing guidance on its use.

I should emphasise that there is no question of anyone considering charging for blood which is, of course, freely donated.

I recognise the important service given by those who voluntarily donate their blood, and I should like to pay tribute to them. The blood transfusion service makes a vital contribution to our health services, and it is essential that new donors should continue to come forward.

31. Mr. Stallard

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is satisfied that there are sufficient safeguards to ensure that blood donated free of charge to the National Health Service is being properly used to safeguard the health of patients in that service.

38. Mr. Campbell-Savours

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he has studied the advice of the board of governors of the National heart and chest hospitals on record keeping procedures of the blood transfusion service; and if he intends to introduce any improvements.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

Following the report of the board of governors we have asked the advisory committee on the National Blood Transfusion Service to consider arrangements for the control of blood donated to the NHS, and in the light of their advice we expect to issue revised guidance to health authorities. The Department is at the same time reviewing audit guidance and practice in relation to the transfusion service.