Swinson statement ahead of World AIDS Day

Speaking ahead of World AIDS Day on 1st December, Leader of the Liberal Democrats Jo Swinson said:

"On World AIDS Day, we remember those who have tragically lost their lives to AIDS. We have come a long way in tackling this awful disease, but we must build a future where we end the epidemic altogether.

"Today, nobody should be contracting HIV. But last year alone, 15 people did so while waiting to access preventative treatment, PrEP.

"For years the Liberal Democrats have been calling on the Conservatives in government to extend PrEP to everyone who needs it. But they have refused. It is available in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, but not in England. The Conservatives do not appear to care - they haven't mentioned PrEP or HIV once in their manifesto.

"The Liberal Democrats are committed to meeting the Global Goal to end AIDS by 2030. We will build a brighter future where everyone who needs PrEP has access to it for free and where sexual health services are properly funded."