§ Sir John HannamTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) if he will be making a statement on the content of the executive letter to the national health service in November concerning new drugs for multiple sclerosis. [14093]
(2) if he will set out the guidelines which has been issued to authorities regarding the prescription of interferon-beta-lb for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. [14091]
§ Mr. MaloneExecutive letter EL(95)97 about the introduction of beta-interferon drugs for multiple sclerosis was issued on 15 November 1995. It suggested that beta-interferon should be prescribed by hospital neurologists where clinically appropriate. The guidance was accompanied by clinical advice from the Standing Medical Advisory Committee. Copies of both documents are available in the Library.