§ 15. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Health when he expects to provide a second plastic surgery unit in South Wales.
§ Mr. ThomasIs the Minister aware that that reply was thoroughly unsatisfactory and showed no sense of urgency? Is she further aware that in South Wales we are constantly having instances of people who are suffering badly from burns having to be conveyed as much as 30, 40 or even up to 60 miles to Chepstow Hospital? Can the hon. Lady indicate to this highly populated area when we may expect another plastic surgery unit?
§ Miss PittI am aware of the difficulties—we discussed them at considerable length in an Adjournment debate—and the placing of the present unit at Chepstow is by no means ideal. My earlier Answer made it clear, however, that we do not feel that there is need for two units. Eventually, the plan is that the units shall be available at the new Cardiff Hospital.
§ Mr. MorrisHas the hon. Lady received any representations from the Association of District Councils? Is she not aware that there is great concern in heavy industry in West Wales about this matter?
§ Miss PittYes, Sir. We have received representations on this subject from trade unions and from the Association of District Councils.
§ Mr. ThomasCan the Minister give me an idea in time when we may expect provision for a second unit?
§ Miss PittNo, Sir, I have explained that a second unit is not needed, although we agree that the present one could be better placed.
§ 16. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Health the total number of children, of men and of women, respectively, who are waiting admission to Chepstow plastic surgery centre; what is the number who have been waiting longer than one year; and how long he anticipates it will take for the person now at the end of the queue to be admitted as a patient.
§ Miss PittSeventy children, 222 men and 94 women are awaiting admission; 17, 138 and 5, respectively, have been on the waiting list for over a year; waiting time depends on medical need.
§ Mr. ThomasAre not these disgraceful figures? Do they not make nonsense of the Minister's earlier reply that a second unit is not necessary? People are waiting years to have attention for cleft palates, as well as those who suffer in industry. Will the Minister look again at this subject?
§ Miss PittIt is constantly under review and we are constantly being reminded by hon. Members from the Principality. Urgent cases are, however, admitted immediately. Other cases may need only minor treatment. Some are not ready for operation and some, who may not need to be admitted at all, are kept on the list for a period for observation.