§ Dr. IddonTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if the definition of giving basic care to a helpless patient includes the provision of fluids. [67209]
§ Ms Rosie WintertonThe Government's position is that the definition of basic care includes the offer of food and fluids. These should always be offered to patients who are capable of swallowing them. Where nutrition and hydration have to be provided by artificial means, their possible withdrawal is, in all cases, a matter of clinical judgment which is undertaken in accordance with professional advice provided by a responsible and recognised body of medical opinion and the general law. The current consultation paper, "Making Decisions: Helping People who have Difficulty Deciding for Themselves", reflects this position.
§ Dr. IddonTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what advice will be given based on consultation on "Making Decisions: Helping People who Have Difficulty Deciding for Themselves" in the advisory leaflets on the effects of dehydration. [67208]
§ Ms Rosie WintertonThe Consultation Paper, "Making Decisions: Helping People who have Difficulty Deciding for Themselves", seeks responses by 9 July 2002. Following the closure of the consultation period, all responses received will be thoroughly considered and will inform the final published version of the guidance leaflets. I will make a statement on responses to the consultation in due course.