§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many pregnancy tests were carried out at hospitals following referral from a general practitioner in 1989 and at what cost; if he will list his reply by region; and if he will make a statement about pregnancy test charges in the future.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyThe information requested is not available centrally. Where health authorities offer general practitioners direct access to pathology services it is for the general practitioner concerned to judge whether a hospital test is warranted or whether an alternative method of confirming pregnancy is appropriate. Tests provided under the national health service will continue to be free of charge.