§ Mr. AmessTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the compatibility of the pilot scheme in the Manchester, Salford and Trafford 9W Health Action Zone, for provision of the morning-after pill, with the preconditions laid down in Gillick v. West Norfolk and Wisbech area health authority. [118017]
§ Yvette CooperAny young woman, aged under 16, seeking emergency contraception without parental knowledge or consent from one of the pharmacists operating in the pilot must be assessed by the pharmacist in relation to the criteria set out in the Gillick judgment. This covers the young person's understanding, maturity and their best interests including physical and mental health. It is for the pharmacist to use his or her judgment as to whether the criteria are satisfied. If necessary, the pharmacist can seek further advice from a doctor and refer the young person on to specialist contraceptive services.
§ Mr. AmessTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the pilot scheme in the Manchester, Salford and Trafford Health Action Zone; under which pharmacists provide the morning-after pill to girls under 16 years. [118014]
§ Yvette CooperThis scheme is being closely monitored by the Project Steering Group, Manchester, Salford and Trafford Health Authorities along with the Health Action Zone. The North West Regional Office of the National Health Service Executive is being kept fully informed of developments.
In total there are 16 community pharmacies currently participating in this scheme. Nine are from Manchester and the remaining six are from Salford and Trafford.