§ Mr. KeetchTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what tests are carried out on members of HM armed forces for(a) sexually transmitted diseases and (b) HIV/AIDs; and if he will make a statement. [153169]
§ Dr. MoonieThere is no compulsory testing for sexually transmitted diseases or HIV. Standard laboratory tests, specific to the particular type of disease, for sexually transmitted diseases are carried out on service personnel where clinically indicated. Tests for HIV are carried out where this is a requirement prior to service in certain countries, or at the request of individuals who are concerned that they may have contracted HIV. Service personnel can, of course, make use of civilian genitourinary clinics.