§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when it was decided to fund the new Scottish ambulance communication system through a private finance initiative; when tenders were sought on this basis; when they were submitted to the Scottish Office; how many were received; and when he expects the result of this to be announced. [12958]
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 1 February 1996]: Recognising that private sector capabilities and skills might more effectively manage the installation and operation of modern telecommunications systems, early replacement of the remaining old ambulance radio system was included as a key element of a procurement exercise initiated in October 1994. This open procurement, conducted under European Community rules, resulted in keen competition. The proposals of three potential suppliers were evaluated and subjected to field trials in early 1995, following which detailed contract negotiations have continued with a single consortium. It was invited to submit a tender on 28 December 1995; this was submitted on 15 January 1996 and it is expected that a decision will be announced at the end of February.
§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when the decision to equip the Scottish ambulance service with a new command and control communication system was announced; and when he expects it to be fully operational. [12957]
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 1 February 1996]: The decision to provide a new radio system, and associated command and control computer system for the Scottish ambulance service was announced to the Scottish Grand Committee on 7 March 1989, Official Report, column 4. The radio system became operational in the Grampian region in December 1993 and was successfully linked to the command and control system in March 1994. Extension of the system to 93W Highland region and the western isles was completed by the end of 1994; present installation work in Tayside is nearing completion.
§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many incidents there have been in each year since 1988 when ambulances have been unable to be contacted in emergencies because they were out of contact with the control headquarters. [12959]
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 1 February 1996]: A comprehensive record of the numbers of such incidents is not maintained by the Scottish Ambulance Service NHS trust. Ambulance performance for emergency calls is measured in terms of the time taken for an ambulance to reach the patient. Performance against response time targets has improved consistently across Scotland including in those areas where the new radio communications system has still to be installed.