§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what advice his Department is currently issuing about the implications for the spread of acquired immune deficiency syndrome of the practice known as French kissing; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonThe AIDS virus (HIV) has been found in low density in saliva so there is a remote theoretical risk that transfer of saliva in French kissing, especially where the uninfected partner has a cut or sore in the mouth, could lead to transmission of the virus. But there is no evidence that the infection has ever been spread in this way. Our current advice is therefore that people need not worry about catching the infection from kissing.
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§ Sir Dudley Smithasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why official advertising on the dangers of acquired immune deficiency syndrom has not been extended to the regional press.
§ Mr. NewtonThe first stage of the Department's advertising campaign has, of necessity, used the national media. As the campaign develops in the new year, an important role for both regional and local newspapers is envisaged.