§ Sir David PriceTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps the National Blood Transfusion Service has taken to ensure that all blood supplied through the service is free of the HIV-2 virus, as well as the HIV-1 virus; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanSince August 1983 potential donors have been given a leaflet which asks those at risk of HIV infection not to give blood.
In addition, since June 1988 samples from donors who have visited those countries where HIV-2 is more common have been tested for antibodies to HIV-2. The need for testing on a wider basis is kept under constant review in the light of the test results and any new developments.
All blood donations have been tested for antibodies to HIV 1 since October 1985.