HEALTH PORTFOLIO

In reply to Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (13 October 2010).

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING (Playford—Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education, Minister for Science and Information Economy, Minister for Road Safety, Minister for Veterans' Affairs): The Minister for Health has advised that:

1. The Sustainable Budget Commission (SBC) process was subject to Cabinet requirements.

2. The overall intention of the Healthy Food and Drink Choices for Staff and Visitors in SA Health Facilities policy is to work towards increasing healthier food and drink options whilst restricting less healthy options for staff, patients and visitors.

The policy allows for up to 20 per cent of the food and drinks displayed to come from RED category items, which includes lollies, chocolates and other confectionary.

3. The Smoke-Free Health Services policy is designed to protect people from passive smoking. Many of the people who stay in, or visit our hospitals are particularly vulnerable to passive smoking, such as veterans with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

The implementation of the new policy at the Repatriation General Hospital has gone well.