§ Mr. ChopeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if (1) NICE consulted Ministers before the announcement on 22 December 2000 of further research into the cost effectiveness of drugs for multiple sclerosis; [147038]
(2) what discussions took place between health Ministers and the Chief Executive of the National Institute for Clinical Excellence following the institute's appraisal review meeting for multiple sclerosis on 13 December. [147037]
§ Mr. DenhamThere were no discussions between Ministers and the Chief Executive of the National Institute of Clinical Excellence and there was no prior discussion between the Department and NICE about the latter's decision to commission further research into the cost effectiveness of beta interferon and glatiramer following their appraisal committee meeting on 13 December. NICE informed departmental officials of their intentions on 20 December. NICE were advised to make an early announcement in view of the interest and concern surrounding the appraisal.