§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will list the number of cots designated for intensive care of the new-born in each regional health authority and the proportion each figure represents per 10,000 births; if he is satisfied with the provision and distribution of intensive care of the new-born throughout the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoyleI refer my hon. Friend to my reply on 24th July—[Vol. 954,c.557–8.]—in which I explained that until such time as regional health authorities have been able to implement fully 205W the recommendations of HC(76)40 it will be difficult to distinguish between degrees of special and intensive care; and that full information on the amount rind location of intensive care practised in regions could be provided only through the most exhaustive enquiries.
The actions of health authorities in implementing the recommendations of HC(76)40 are being followed up through the NHS planning system; and all regions have been asked specifically to cover the subject of perinatal and infant mortality and handicapping, and plans for improvement in areas with persistently poor figures in their planning statements due to be submitted in January 1979.
Intensive care for babies in Scotland. Northern Ireland and Wales is a matter for my right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Scotland and for Northern Ireland and my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Wales, respectively.