HC Deb 06 March 1990 vol 168 cc565-6W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what action he proposes to detect cervical cancer at an early stage; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Grist

All district health authorities in Wales operate cervical screening services for women aged 20 to 64 based on computerised call and recall, which are designed to detect both pre-cancerous changes and the early stages of cervical cancer. Their efforts have been supported by a total of £1.3 million of recurring Welsh Office funds and, in addition, a further £390,000 has recently been allocated for the purchase of additional equipment. Welsh Office officials are continuing to work with health authority managers and clinicians to ensure maximum effectiveness of the programme.