§ 3. Mr. Michael Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will make a statement on the reasons for the inadequacy of the supplies of radio-opaque swabs to Northampton General Hospital.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Health and Social Security (Dr. David Owen)There was a temporary shortage of X-ray detectable swabs in hospitals in the Northampton district, and as a result operations were limited to emergencies only from 21st October. Supplies have now been assured and normal operating conditions prevail.
§ Mr. MorrisI am grateful to the Minister for that answer but I wonder whether the Government realise the pressure under which Northampton works. It is an expanding town—I am working under enormous pressure—and we really cannot tolerate a situation in which, once again, Northampton is landed with inadequate resources. I seek an assurance from the Minister—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Member has been called to ask a supplementary question. He has made two statements already. He must put a question.
§ Mr. MorrisCan the Minister give an assurance that, in future, supplies will be assured to Northampton General Hospital?
§ Dr. OwenWe are looking into the question of a central stockpile which might help in emergencies like this.