§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what guidance has been given to maternity units in Scotland regarding offers from manufacturers of free samples or supplies of milk powder or other infant formulæ.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythCurrent guidance to health boards is that free samples or subsidised supplies of breastmilk substitutes should not be accepted from manufacturers for distribution to patients in maternity wards. Boards are also advised to avoid accepting anything of commercial value from manufacturers or distributors which may be seen as influencing their choice or use of infant formulae. These guidelines, implemented with the agreement of the manufacturers of baby milks, are part of the Government's response to the World Health Organisation's programme to promote and protect breastfeeding.