§ Ms. WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to reduce the time out-patients in north Staffordshire have to wait for a first available orthopaedic appointment.
§ Mr. MellorWaiting lists and waiting times for orthopaedic treatment in north Staffordshire are being investigated by an independent management team. If the team identifies the need for an injection of funds, the regional health authority will be able to apply for an allocation from the £6 million reserved from the waiting list fund for districts with particular waiting problems.