Written question asked by Tam Dalyell (Labour) on Monday, 14 July 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 October 2003. It was answered by Melanie Johnson (Labour) on Monday, 6 October 2003 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, pursuant to the letter of 28th May, ref PO 102 7835, what action he has taken since 28th May to assess the evolving situation of SARS. - (Holding answer 17 July 2003).

Answer: Mr. Dalyell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the letter of 28 May 2003, reference PO 102 7835, what action he has taken since 28 May 2003 to assess the evolving situation of SARS. [126271] Miss Melanie Johnson :[holding answer 17 July 2003]: Our policy with regard to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) has been kept under continuous review and amended according to the current and anticipated situation in the United Kingdom. There have been reports of suspected cases of SARS in both Singapore and Hong Kong. The World Health Organisation actively follow up any suspected cases and will issue an alert if confirmed. In the meantime, the Department, along with the Health Protection Agency, is carrying out a number of reviews covering surveillance, national health service guidance and exit screening.

Secondary information