HC Deb 16 November 1998 vol 319 cc443-4W
Mr. Duncan

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what research his Department has evaluated on the leucodepletion of blood within the Blood Transfusion Service. [59991]

Ms Jowell

The Department has considered all the published research on leucodepletion. The National Blood Authority and the Department are currently carrying out further research on the effects of leucodepletion, which will be evaluated when completed. The need for further research will be assessed.

Mr. Duncan

To ask the Secretary of State for Health when he expects the conclusions of the National Blood Authority to be published with regard to the leucodepletion of blood within the blood transfusion service. [59981]

Ms Jowell

In July 1998, on advice of the Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee, the National Blood Authority was instructed to implement the leucodepletion of all blood. This process will be completed by next autumn.