Written question asked by Caroline Spelman (Conservative) on Wednesday, 28 March 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 5 April 2001. It was answered by Yvette Cooper (Labour) on Thursday, 5 April 2001 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, if he will make a statement on the reasons underlying the length of time between the decision by NICE on the approval of the Thin Prep Pap Test and its planned implementation. - Inc figure.

Answer: Mrs. Spelman: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the reasons underlying the length of time between the decision by NICE on the approval of the Thin Prep Pap Test and its planned implementation. [156551] Yvette Cooper: The pilot study to assess the feasibility of using liquid based cytology (LBC) in the National Health Service cervical screening programme is being progressed in line with the overall guidance published by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) in June 2000. LBC is being piloted in conjunction with human papilloma virus (HPV) testing. Since NICE's recommendation, the three sites for the pilot study have been selected, pilot staff have been trained in the new procedures, and new equipment has been installed on site. Screening began in March 2001, as originally planned.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 156551; 366 c272W
Session: 2000-01
Subjects: Cervical cancer Administrative delays Diagnosis Medical treatments Pilot schemes Screening National Institute for Clinical Excellence Human papillomavirus
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk