§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received in respect of 850W the change in policy as a consequence of which cervical smear tests are offered every five years instead of every year; how he justifies the change; if he will return to the earlier policy; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth Clarke[pursuant to his reply, 26 October 1984, column 756]: Our policy on the frequency of screening has not changed. It continues to be based on the advice of the expert independent Committee on Gynaecological Cytology who recently confirmed its view that five years was the appropriate interval after reviewing the available research evidence. The recently revised policy guidelines seek to ensure that all sexually active women have a regular smear test.