30 November 2007
Gordon Brown has highlighted the fight against HIV/AIDS as a "key priority" and spoken of his belief that the disease can be eradicated.
In a video message recorded for World AIDS Day, the PM said the Government would continue to play a "leadership role" in increasing awareness and providing retroviral drugs in the UK and around the world. Mr Brown announced a 20 percent increase in funding to local authorities for care provision for those affected by the disease.
The PM said:
"World AIDS Day gives us a chance to reflect on the people we have lost to the epidemic. As we remember them, our sorrow must not turn to despair. Just as once we defeated smallpox and now stand on the brink of eradicating polio, I believe that together we can make AIDS history."
Mr Brown highlighted a £19 million TV campaign in South Africa, and a £40 million campaign in Kenya, that will raise awareness and encourage responsible sexual health behaviour. He thanked the British people for their contribution to "saving and transforming lives around the world".
The UN coordinated World AIDS Day will be marked by events throughout the UK and across the globe tomorrow. Details can be found on the UK’s World AIDS Day website.
Earlier this week the PM welcomed members of the Terrence Higgins Trust to Downing Street to mark its 25 years of campaigning on HIV/AIDS issues.
- Terrence Higgins Trust celebrates 25 years
- World’s major diseases can be conquered - PM
- Go to the UN-AIDS website (new window)
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