asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what information he has about the risks of contracting AIDS from hairdressing implements; and what guidance has been given to hairdressers on these matters.

We are not aware of any case in which HIV infection has been transmitted through hairdressing implements. However, high standards of hygiene are needed wherever there is a possibility, however remote, that sharp instruments such as razors or scissors could accidentally draw blood from one person and transfer it and innoculate it into another person. The Department and the public health laboratory service are preparing guidance for hairdressers on this.