MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS THERAPY CENTRES

Early day motion 774, tabled 30 January 2007 by Colin Breed (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 77 members.

That this House is aware that the multiple sclerosis national therapy centres (MSNTC) are a group of self-help therapy centres offering assistance to thousands of people with multiple sclerosis throughout England and Wales by providing a wide range of drug-free symptom management therapies, advice and support for those with the illness and also their families; notes that these MS therapy centres are non-profit making charities which raise about £6 million annually, which is used entirely to meet their costs; and further notes in particular that the Merlin Project will establish the first-ever and much-needed MS therapy centre in Cornwall; expresses concern at the Healthcare Commission's decision to impose charges for inspection of MSNTCs; further notes that these fees will have a very serious financial impact making MSNTCs the only non-profit making bodies charged these fees; further notes that Welsh MSNTCs are exempt from charges; and calls on the Government to review the Healthcare Commission's decision on inspection charges.

Signatures by party: Labour 29, Liberal Democrat 23, Conservative 21, DUP 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2.