§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations she has received concerning the link between asthma and rising levels of pollution from motor vehicles.
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§ Mr. SackvilleSince the beginning of the 1993–94 Session we have received:
- 25 parliamentary questions from hon. Members;
- 15 letters from hon. Members and Peers; and
- 44 letters from members of the public
§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures she has put into effect to provide for the increase in the number of asthma sufferers; and what further measures she has considered to provide for any further increase.
§ Mr. SackvilleApproximately 90 per cent. of general practitioners have been approved to run a continuing programme of chronic disease management for asthma. In 1992–93 the Medical Research Council, which receives its grant-in-aid from my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, spent over £1.5 million on research into asthma and areas which may be relevant to the condition. The Department's centrally commissioned research programme is undertaking four studies on asthma. In 1992 the Department set up the Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Pollutants—COMEAP—which has since set up a sub-committee to advise on the link between exposure to low levels of air pollution and asthma. As part of "The Health of the Nation" programme the Government are promoting a smoke-free environment.