HC Deb 29 June 1978 vol 952 cc671-2W
Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what is the optimum number of cots in intensive care units for the newborn per 10,000 births; when he expects this level to be reached throughout the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement;

(2) what is the optimum number of cots in special care baby units per 10,000 births; when he expects this level to be reached throughout the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Moyle

The report of the Expert Group on Special Care for Babies (1971) recommended six special care cots per 1,000 live births, this ratio to be applied flexibly to take account of local factors, and HC(76)40 supported this advice. There are currently more than six cots: 1,000 live births in England. The expert group's report recommended that, of total special care cots in England and Wales, some 320 cots would be required for intensive care: this represented a ratio of approximately four cots per 10,000 live births at the time which, applied to the number of live births in England in 1976, would suggest a present requirement for 220 cots in total. I am making inquiries of regional health authorities about the numbers of special and intensive care cots in their regions and will let the hon. Member have a further reply as soon as possible.

I understand from my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Wales that numbers of cots available for special care in Wales are in excess of six: 1,000 live births. My right hon. and learned Friend is also making inquiries about the numbers of intensive care cots in Wales.

I understand from my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland that numbers of cots available for both special and intensive care are already in excess of the levels indicated above. Geographical distribution and overall standards of care are additional matters for consideration and my right hon. Friend proposes to consider these aspects further in the light of detailed reports.

I understand from my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland that numbers of cots available for both special and intensive care are in excess of the levels indicated above.