THE Isle of Man government will not return to its former policy of providing free condoms to help prevent the spread of HIV.

That was the view of Health Minister David Anderson in Tynwald this morning when he answered a series of questions about the prevalence of HIV in the Island.

Since 2001 the Isle of Man clinic has diagnosed a total of 28 cases of HIV. The most significant increases were noted in 2003 and 2004 with six new cases in each year.

The average cost of treatment is estimated at between £12,000 to £15,000 per year. 

Using UK statistics as a guide, Mr Anderson said the annual cost to the Isle of Man of HIV “prevention” could be put at £41,000.

Mr Anderson added, “It is accepted that there is still an issue where education is still required  for groups such as 5th and 6th form students and also some more vulnerable groups.

Douglas East MHK Brenda Cannell asked if the department had considered reviewing its policy of not supplying condoms free to vulnerable groups.

Mr Anderson replied, “No, we are not prepared to re-visit this area.”