§ Mrs. DeanTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to change the policy of permanently barring those who have suffered from childhood eczema from entering the armed forces. [110761]
§ Mr. SpellarMedical entry standards are constantly under review. The current policy barring applicants with eczema from entering the Armed Forces was last reviewed at the end of 1998, with policy being based on advice from the Defence Consultant Adviser in Dermatology. Eczema, and related serious skin diseases, are not considered compatible with Service life. However, those who have suffered from childhood eczema are not necessarily barred from entry into the Armed Forces. Each candidate is considered on an individual basis that takes account of medical history, and the possible effect on the condition of the proposed type of employment.