Written question asked by Gavin Strang (Labour) on Monday, 12 April 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 21 April 1999. It was answered by Sam Galbraith (Labour) on Wednesday, 21 April 1999 on behalf of the Scottish Office.

Scottish Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, pursuant to his Answer of 23rd February, 326 c222-24W, if he will set out for each group of people tested, whether (a) their consent was sought for entry and (b) they were informed that they were to be entered into an anonymised HIV prevalence survey.

Answer: Dr. Strang: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, pursuant to his answer of 23 February 1999, Official Report, columns 222-24, if he will set out for each group of people tested, whether (a) their consent was sought for entry and (b) they were informed that they were to be entered into an anonymised HIV prevalence survey. [80714] Mr. Galbraith: [holding answer 20 April 1999]: The programme of unlinked anonymous HIV testing was introduced in the UK in 1989, in accordance with World Health Organisation international guidelines for its global programme on AIDS, on the basis that specific informed consent is not required. However, in clinical settings where such testing is undertaken, this should be made clear to attenders by the use of posters and leaflets, which should also indicate that any person not wishing to have their sample tested in this way may refuse permission. Appropriate posters and leaflets are provided in antenatal care settings and in genito-urinary medicine clinics. From 1 July 1999, this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 80714; 329 c575W
Session: 1998-99
Subjects: Babies Disease control HIV/AIDS Pregnancy Scotland Screening Surveys World Health Organization Sexual and reproductive health