§ Tim LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to review the target payments paid to general practitioners for MMR vaccination rates. [42269]
§ Yvette Cooper[holding answer 11 March 2002]: There have been calls for a moratorium on the target payment system in the wake of the public debate on the MMR vaccine. We recognise the hard work of general practitioners and health visitors in responding to parents" concerns around MMR and trying to sustain high rates 442W of immunisation in the current climate. However, we consider it would be inappropriate and counter-productive to change the target payment system at this time.
§ Ann ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what percentage of children in the Cynon valley have been immunised before their fifth birthday against measles, mumps and rubella in the last year for which figures are available; what the national average is; and what steps his Department is taking to ensure that the Government reach their target rate for vaccination. [39521]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI have been asked to reply. These are matters for the National Assembly for Wales. I am, though, aware that the Assembly has taken a number of steps over the past year, aimed at improving uptake of the MMR vaccine.
In April 2001, they launched the Mythbuster initiative, to assist health professionals in counselling concerned parents and dispelling myths surrounding the safety of MMR. This was followed up with a comprehensive information programme which included an in-depth technical pack, leaflets, posters and videos.