HC Deb 17 January 2001 vol 361 cc247-8W
Mr. Stunell

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he has been notified by NICE of the date for completing its technology appraisals of beta interferon and glatiramer; and if he will make a statement [145722]

Mr. Denham

We expect the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) to consult on draft guidance later in the year, following the development of further economic modelling on beta interferon and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone). Subsequently, NICE plans to issue its guidance to the National Health Service by November 2001, unless there are appeals against the outcome of the appraisal.