§ Sir Ivan LawrenceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has for reducing the risk of HIV infection in prisons; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter LloydHIV/AIDS policy for prisoners already places strong emphasis on preventive measures,568W notably educational and counselling services. Following a wide-ranging review of policy and practice the potential for further risk reduction measures is being considered.
It will be appreciated that these are sensitive and difficult issues which need to be considered carefully, the more so because I understand that the first report has been received of an identified case of HIV transmission within prisons in England and Wales. The Public Health Laboratory Service has been asked to investigate the case and, if appropriate, advise on the further measures necessary to reduce the risk of other similar occurrences.