§ 28. Mr. Pavittasked the Minister of Health if he will inquire into the original costs, maintenance and usage of operating theatres in mental hospitals; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PowellNo, Sir, but many are under-used and I am advising hospital authorities to use them more to reduce waiting lists.
§ Mr. PavittIs the Minister aware that there are quite a large number which are used very slightly indeed and then only for very minor operations? Is he further aware that the long waiting lists in general surgery and gynaecology are often caused not only by lack of consultants but by lack of operating theatres, time and space? Will not he give further thought to having a thorough inquiry to see whether the available accommodation which is not being used might be brought into better use for these purposes?
§ Mr. PowellThe hon. Member's supplementary question is precisely in line with my reply.