§ Dr. HarrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans the National Blood Authority has to introduce a system of informed consent for blood donors, with particular reference to use of blood in(a) the private sector and (b) through overseas sales. [15586]
§ Mr. BoatengInformation for blood donors explains that donations are primarily used for National Health Service patients but that reasonable requests for blood for patients in the private sector are met and that blood products are sold overseas when demand in this country has been satisfied.
§ Dr. HarrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if the National Blood Authority is required to hold an open annual general meeting. [15578]
§ Mr. BoatengThis is not currently required. We are considering the preparation of Regulations to extend the list of bodies to which the Public Bodies (Admissions to Meetings) Act 1960 applies.
§ Dr. HarrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if the recommendations made by Professor John Cash on the future of the National Blood Service will be the subject of further consultation; and if he will make a statement. [15575]
§ Mr. BoatengProfessor Cash is carrying out a clinical review of the blood services for Merseyside and the surrounding area. We will consider next steps when we receive the report.