§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what quantities of amniotic fluid blood samples and human tissues were imported from Hong Kong through Heathrow airport to private laboratories in the United Kingdom in 1994; what tests are carried out on such samples for the AIDS virus, hepatitis and other infectious diseases; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleInformation is not available centrally on the quantity of blood and tissue samples sent to the United Kingdom from abroad. The transport of potentially infectious pathology samples is subject to detailed national and international guidelines directed at ensuring safety. Laboratories receiving such material will be aware of the procedures which they, and the sender, should follow.