§ Sir Raymond Gowerasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many cases of acquired immune deficiency syndrome are known to have occured in Scotland; what specialist medical advice he has so far received; what consultation he has had with blood transfusion centres in Scotland regarding steps to be taken to ensure that blood donors are free of this disease; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayBy 26 November three confirmed cases of AIDS had been registered with the communicable diseases (Scotland) unit. Specialist medical advice is received from the unit, the Scottish national blood transfusion service and specialists in other relevant disciplines. The SNBTS has, in consultation with my Department, issued a revised leaflet on AIDS and how it concerns blood donors. Steps are being taken to ensure that this leaflet is seen by all potential donors in Scotland before they give blood. It reinforces my Department's previous advice that persons at high risk of contracting AIDS should not donate blood.