HC Deb 30 October 1989 vol 159 cc27-8W
Mr. Bermingham

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the total amount of moneys paid out of the trust fund set up to assist those haemophiliacs infected with the HIV virus who are in the greatest need; how many such applications have been made to the fund and granted; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Freeman

I understand that in the period to 31 August 1989 the trust made 1,600 single payments totalling around £0.9 million and 578 regular payments totalling around £1 million. The Macfarlane Trust is an independent charitable trust and it is a matter for the trustees to allocate funds in the way which they consider best meets the needs of those eligible for assistance within the provision of the trust deed.

Mr. Bermingham

To ask the Secretary of State for Health which health authorities have so far been issued with writs by haemophiliacs infected with the HIV virus; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Freeman

As health authorities are separately represented, the Department does not routinely receive this information. However, I understand that most regional and district health authorities and some special health authorities have been issued with writs.