§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission, if he will restore regular medical checks on the health of hon. Members by the Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Service. [108318]
§ Sir Archy KirkwoodThe Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Service (OHSWS) is an advisory service provided by both Houses of Parliament. The OHSWS assesses the effects work has on health and offers specialist advice on all aspects of health and safety in the workplace.
A medical screening service is offered to hon. Members and Peers on a three yearly rolling programme and an earlier appointment can be requested if required. This service has been provided without interruption for more than 10 years. Between June 2002 and March 2003 79 hon. Members have been through the screening process.