HC Deb 15 May 1996 vol 277 cc470-1W
Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the chairman of the South East Wales ambulance trust concerning the advertising of the chief executive's post; and if he will make a statement. [29388]

Mr. Hague

None. The appointment of a chief executive for the trust is a matter for the chairman and his non-executive directors. My officials have briefed the chairman on the statutory requirements for such an appointment and on the accountability role associated with the post.

Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the chairman of the South East Wales ambulance trust concerning the minimum level of qualifications acceptable for the post of gold commander for major incidents. [29389]

Mr. Hague

I have held no such consultations. It is for the boards of NHS ambulance trusts to ensure that those nominated to take on the responsibilities of gold commander or equivalent have sufficient authority and expertise to carry out this important role.

It is for health authorities to ensure that appropriate arrangements and staff are in place.

Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the chairman of the South East Wales ambulance trust concerning the(a) number of trained paramedics available by the end of 1996, (b) participation in research and development groups by paramedics and (c) numbers of training places for paramedics and numbers of training officers. [29390]

Mr. Hague

None. These are matters primarily for the trust. However, the Government's target of a paramedic on all front-line emergency vehicles by the end of 1996 is monitored by my Department. The numbers of training places for paramedics are determined on an all-Wales basis in line with employers' requirements.

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