HC Deb 20 December 1990 vol 183 cc341-2W
Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received about the estimated number of patients who would benefit from erythropoietin.

Mr. Dorrell

We have received a number of representations concerning erythropoietin.

Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether, pursuant to his reply of 26 November,Official Report, column 296, he has received or intends to acquire, information from regional health authorities on the extent to which the extra funds provided by his Department for 1991–92 will meet the needs of all patients who fulfil his Department's criteria for benefiting from erythropoietin.

Mr. Dorrell

No. We previously discussed with regional health authorities their plans for the funding of erythropoietin. Their strategies varied but all were aware of its benefits and the need for its progressive introduction.