asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the terms of reference of the blood laboratory at Elstree; and whether the laboratory is precluded from developing or expanding into areas of production when private pharmaceutical companies are involved.

The blood products laboratory operates under the NHS Act 1977 in accordance with policies approved by my right hon. Friend. Any proposals to develop new products derived from blood or to expand the laboratory's production are considered on their merits by the joint management committee for the central blood laboratories.