HC Deb 01 July 1980 vol 987 c477W
14. Mr. Aitken

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the average waiting list time for cataract operations in the Thanet-Canterbury health district; how this compares with the national average; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Vaughan

Average waiting time in England and Wales in 1977, based on a sample inquiry, was 21.8 weeks. Comparable figures for the Canterbury and Thanet health district are not readily available centrally, but I am aware that there is a long waiting list for cataract operations in this district.