§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance has been given to maternity units regarding offers from manufacturers of free samples or supplies of milk powder or other infant formula.
§ Mr. DorrellIn July 1989, guidance (HC(89)21), a copy of which is available in the Library, was issued to all regional, district and special health authorities in England 497W and Wales instructing them neither to accept nor distribute free samples and to refuse to accept subsidised supplies of infant formulas. This was part of the Government's response to the World Health Organisation's programme to promote and protect breast-feeding. In addition, authorities were advised to ensure that acceptance of any gift or other commercial donation should not be seen to have influenced their purchasing choice.