§ Mrs. ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has for the future development of hospital casualty units in Wales; what assessment he has made of the Audit Commission report; and if he will make a statement. [21386]
§ Mr. RichardsThe future development of hospital accident units will be judged against the criteria of clinical safety, ease of access and value for money.
The Audit Commission's report "By Accident or Design—Improving A&E Services in England and Wales" is currently being considered. It will undoubtedly aid the Department's review of accident and emergency services throughout Wales.
The recently launched patients charter for Wales anticipated a number of the Audit Commission's recommendations and others are being considered for future editions of the charter.