Written question asked by Steve Webb (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 24 October 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 26 October 2005. It was answered by Liam Byrne (Labour) on Monday, 7 November 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy for the treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis;

Answer: In May 2003, the Medical Research Council (MRC) announced funding for a major trial into various treatment options for those with myalgic encephalomyelitis. Known as PACE—pacing, activity and cognitive behavioural therapy: a randomised evaluation—this trial is ongoing.The main agency through which the Government supports medical and clinical research is the Medical Research Council (MRC). The MRC is an independent body, funded by the Department of Trade and Industry via the Office of Science and Technology. The MRC is currently funding two complementary trials into various treatment options for chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) that aim to improve quality of life for those who are ill. The Department is meeting part of the cost of the trials, to which in total £4.2 million has been allocated. Patient recruitment began toward the end of last year.Over 75 per cent. of the Department's total expenditure on health research is, however, devolved to and managed by national health service organisations. Details of individual projects, including some concerned with myalgic encephalomyelitis, can be found on the national research register on the Department's website at www.dh.gov.uk/research.

Secondary information