Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jane Ellison and Lord Jackson of Peterborough
Tuesday 1st April 2014

(11 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Jackson of Peterborough Portrait Mr Stewart Jackson (Peterborough) (Con)
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In the absence of a definitive policy decision on the fortification of basic foodstuffs with folic acid, what steps are Ministers taking to encourage women of child-bearing age to take folic acid to reduce the incidence of neural tube defects such as spina bifida and hydrocephalus?

Jane Ellison Portrait Jane Ellison
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My hon. Friend is right to highlight this important nutritional need for women who are planning to get pregnant or are pregnant. He and I are meeting soon to discuss fortification as a policy area. I urge all GPs and health services to take every opportunity to highlight to women this important nutritional requirement.