§ 37. Mr. ButlerTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the spread of AIDS in Scotland.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythSeventy-five new cases of AIDS were reported in Scotland between 1 January and 31 October 1991, bringing the cumulative total to 270, of whom 169 have died. The annual figures of reported AIDS cases show a rising trend from seven in 1986 to 63 in 1990. The incidence of HIV infection is also increasing. At 30 September 1991, a total of 1,906 people in Scotland had been identified and reported as HIV antibody positive. Of this number, approximately 52 per cent. had a history of injecting drug use. Twenty-six per cent. were women.
These figures demonstrate the need for continuing action to prevent the spread of HIV infection, and the AIDS task force which was set up under my chairmanship in July is considering what further measures might be taken. Since 1988–89 the Government have given additional allocations to health boards in Scotland of more than £51 million as a contribution towards the cost of measures to curb the spread of HIV infection and of providing treatment, counselling and support for those affected by HIV and AIDS.