Written question asked by Andrew Murrison (Conservative) on Wednesday, 2 March 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 18 March 2005. It was answered by Melanie Johnson (Labour) on Friday, 18 March 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what (a) assessment he has made of the scope for the use of essential oils in dealing with MRSA and (b) funding he intends to provide for research into the use of such oils in combating MRSA.

Answer: Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what (a) assessment he has made of the scope for the use of essential oils in dealing with MRSA and (b) funding he intends to provide for research into the use of such oils in combating MRSA. [220178] Miss Melanie Johnson: The scientific literature indicates that essential oils can help control healthcare associated infections, including methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The Department has allocated £3 million to research into healthcare associated infection and has recently issued a call for research proposals. If a proposal on essential oils is submitted, it will be carefully considered alongside others.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 432 c518W; 220178
Session: 2004-05
Subjects: Complementary medicine Hospitals Finance Disease control Infectious diseases Research MRSA
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk