HC Deb 12 March 1996 vol 273 cc590-1W
Mrs. Ann Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) he will seek an apology from the European Commissioner responsible for the decision to allocate funds to enable CSV Media to send condoms on St. Valentine's day to Members of Parliament throughout the European Union; [20507]

(2) if he will make it his policy to require the European Commission AIDS unit to promote sexual abstinence before marriage and fidelity within it, and the avoidance of injected drugs, as the most effective means of avoiding the contracting of AIDS; and if he will make a statement. [20508]

Mr. Horam

We believe that, like other public bodies, it is important that the European Commission AIDS unit communicates the means of avoiding HIV transmission in a manner which is scientifically accurate and respects the personal and cultural sensitivities of the target audience. I share entirely the hon. Member's concern that the St. Valentine's day initiative was inappropriate and will ensure that this view is made known to the organisations involved.