§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had concerning the grant aiding of the 24-hour helpline for drug addiction problems run by Drugaid; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RedwoodIn October 1994, Drugaid was informed of the Government's proposal to establish a national HIV/AIDS and drugs telephone advice and information helpline from 1 April 1995, covering England, Scotland and Wales. Drugaid was invited to tender for the contract, and did so as part of a consortium. The contract was awarded to Network Scotland.
From 1 April, Network Scotland will provide an integrated 24-hour freephone English and Welsh language HIV/AIDS and drug helpline, which will refer users of the service to the appropriate local agencies.
It would be inappropriate for my Department to continue to support a Welsh helpline which would duplicate work undertaken nationally.