§ Mr. StreeterTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how much was spent in the last year for which figures are available on(a) publicity, (b) research and (c) treatment of HIV and AIDS. [990]
§ Ms JowellIn 1996–97, health authorities in England were allocated a total of £185.7 million for treatment and care services for people with HIV and AIDS. These funds are not ring-fenced and it is up to health authorities, taking account of local needs assessment and priorities, to determine their total expenditure. Health authorities were also given ring-fenced funds of £51.3 million for local HIV prevention work including testing services, infection control and health education. In addition, the Department spent £4.2 million in 1996–97 on public health initiatives, education campaigns and helpline services for HIV and AIDS. An estimated further £13.7 million was spent in 1996–97 in the UK on HIV and AIDS research. This figure includes expenditure by the Medical Research Council, the Department of Health and other Government Departments. Relatively little HIV and AIDS research is funded from sources such as charities.