§ Mr. HavardTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has received from the National Blood Service of the effect on the number of blood donors of testing for vCJD; and what plans he has to ensure the supply of blood to non-emergency patients who require transfusions as part of their treatments. [10718]
§ Mr. HuttonThe Department is currently working with the National Blood Service on contingency plans related to the screening of blood donors for vCJD and the impact this could have on the blood supply.
In parallel with the four United Kingdom Health Departments alongside the National Audit Office and the National Blood Transfusion Services, the UK Chief Medical Officers sponsored a conference on better blood transfusion on 29 October. The aim of the conference is to help set the priorities for blood transfusion in the national health service for the coming three to five years including the more efficient and effective use of blood so that we ensure the supply of blood to all patients who require transfusions as part of their treatment.