HC Deb 03 February 1998 vol 305 cc614-5W
Mr. Hesford

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to establish a mental health commission to oversee delivery of mental health care through community services; and if he will make a statement. [26782]

Mr. Boateng

We have established an Independent Reference Group (IRG) to give Ministers advice to help shape credible mental health services and build up public confidence. The IRG will advise Ministers from time to time on a range of important mental health matters. Their first task is to consider long stay hospital closure plans to help ensure that alternative care is in place before closures go ahead.

Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what assessment he has made of the benefits for Alzheimer's sufferers from the drug Aricept; and if he will make a statement on the availability of Aricept in the United Kingdom; [27115]

(2) what plans he has to issue guidance on the prescription of Aricept for Alzheimer's suffers; and if he will make a statement. [27116]

Mr. Milburn

The Standing Medical Advisory Committee is currently considering the benefits of the drug Aricept. Health authorities and clinicians already have access to a number of sources of information on Aricept, on which they can make decisions about the use of this drug.

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