§ 33. Mr. KeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will review the policy guidance he issues to health authorities and NHS trusts on assisted conception. [436]
§ Ms JowellTwo documents providing advice on fertility, including assisted conception, are available to the NHS, "Effective Health Care Bulletin on the Management 57W of Subfertility", published by the National Health Service Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (1992); and "Infertility: Guidelines for Practice" published by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (1992). Both documents are currently being reviewed and updated advice should be available later this year
In addition, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority issues a code of practice to those clinics licensed under the terms of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990. A revised code of practice is currently being prepared.
§ Mr. KeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if it is his policy that assisted conception including in vitro fertilisation should be available free and universally in the national health service. [91]
§ Ms JowellWe are reviewing our policy in this area, in the context of the wider issue of variations in health service provision.