HC Deb 01 February 1985 vol 72 cc361-2W
Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what proposals he has, arising from the report on cot deaths, to ensure that parents and doctors are better informed about appropriate treatment for sick babies;

(2) what action he intends to take in the light of the statement in the report on cot deaths that many of the mothers whose babies died were heavy smokers, did not breast feed their babies and lived in poor housing and environmental conditions.

Mr. John Patten

The report of the DHSS-funded multicentre study of post-neonatal mortality has important implications and calls for a considered response by the professions as well as by the Department, which is holding a conference in March to promote a full discussion of the several issues raised. We hope that this will identify positive steps that can be taken in the fields of prevention and highlight areas for further research.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

We shall make an announcement covering the point raised by the hon. Member as soon as possible.