SAVING SMALL LIVES

12.00.00am GMT Wed 4th Jun 2003

Jenny Tonge MP for Richmond Park

Dr Jenny Tonge, Liberal Democrat MP for Richmond Park, is lending her support to a campaign which should help save the lives of many new-born babies.

She has signed an Early Day Motion at the House of Commons, calling for better screening for mothers whose babies might be at risk of contracting life-threatening infections caused by Group B Streptococcus.

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the most common cause of life-threatening infection in new-born babies, affecting about 700 babies a year. Around 100 of these die, and more are left with mental or physical damage.

The MP said: "I am delighted to put my name to this excellent campaign. Screening programmes in the United States and Europe have been shown to work, and mothers at risk can be given anti-biotics. The sooner we have similar programmes in the UK the better."

ENDS

For further information please contact Jenny Tonge on pager number 07699 734071 or Serena Hennessy on: 020 8332 7919 Notes for Editors: for more information on the campaign contact Group B Strep Support on 01444 416176