Written question asked by Robert Jackson (Conservative) on Wednesday, 30 January 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 14 February 2002. It was answered by Lord Blunkett (Labour) on Thursday, 14 February 2002 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what discussions his Department has had with the Department for Health about contingency measures to be introduced in the event of a smallpox outbreak. - (Holding answer 5 February 2002).

Answer: Mr. Robert Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions his Department has had with the Department for Health about contingency measures to be introduced in the event of a smallpox outbreak. [33335] Mr. Blunkett: [holding answer 5 February 2002]: Home Office and Department of Health officials have regular meetings to ensure cross-Government preparedness for responding to a deliberate chemical/ biological release. This work includes arrangements for responding to a smallpox outbreak. Bilateral arrangements with the United States assist us in ensuring preparation for and stocks of vaccine to contain any such eventuality.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 33335; 380 c618-9W;380 c620-1W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Chemical and biological warfare Biological weapons Civil defence Infectious diseases Emergencies Departmental coordination Smallpox
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk