HC Deb 18 July 1983 vol 46 cc4-5
4. Mr. Anderson

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the future of cardiothoracic services in the Principality.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

The need for new facilities is being reassessed and I shall make an announcement as soon as possible after the recess.

Mr. Anderson

The hon. Gentleman knows that Wales has one of the highest incidences of heart disease in the civilised world and one of the lowest levels of resources to meet the problem. He also knows about the fears that much-needed investment will be held back, because of the Government's public expenditure cuts, to make way for tax cuts for those on high incomes. Therefore, will the hon. Gentleman give the House an assurance that the much-needed facility in Wales will not be held back by the current public expenditure cuts?

Mr. Roberts

I am aware of the general position of cardiothoracic services in Wales. I assure the hon. Gentleman that the position is exactly as I stated it. During our appraisal, further and more up-to-date material became available on the throughput of the present facilities and the general level of provision required. Following an interim report by the Welsh Office appraisal team, I asked that the matter be discussed further with representatives of the Welsh medical committee. The Chancellor's statement has no bearing on the problem.

Sir Raymond Gower

In view of the disastrous consequences of the closure of the heart surgery facilities at Sully hospital some years ago, will my hon. Friend bear in mind, when assessing the current problem, the almost unrivalled facilities available at Sully hospital for cardiothoracic treatment?

Mr. Roberts

We are looking at all possible options. Obviously, an option appraisal has to be carried out, and we shall pay considerable attention to the recommendations of the Welsh medical committee.

Mr. D. E. Thomas

In view of the appallingly high incidence of heart disease in Wales, is not it time that the Welsh Office and the Health Education Council got together to launch a major campaign of public education about preventive aspects of heart disease? Will the hon. Gentleman tackle the problem urgently?

Mr. Roberts

The hon. Gentleman is right. One recommendation of the working party report was that there should be a preventive campaign. The matter is under active consideration.