§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans he has to assist the World Health Organisation strategy of health for all by the year 2000; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Curriethe Government have fully endorsed the principles underlying the "Health for All" strategy which are
—the provision of a health care system in which primary health care is recognised as playing a vital role. The Government have conducted a wide ranging review of primary health care services and will shortly be publishing a White Paper setting out proposals for updating these services;—promotion of healthier lifestyles and encouraging individuals to look after their own health—an emphasis which is making progress in this country and is exemplified in our national campaigns on drug abuse, smoking, AIDS and coronary heart disease and the creation of the new Health Education Authority;—reduction of preventable conditions—for example, the Government's emphasis in relation to children and young adults on the reduction of perinatal and maternal mortality, progress in immunisation rates, new cancer screening programme;—development of the necessary supportive measures such as our improved management and planning structures, our development of new information systems and the increases in the numbers of those working in the health services.The strategy sets out a valuable framework for all those responsible for health service planning to use in the light of local circumstances and we shall be taking it fully into account in preparing future planning guidelines to health authorities.