HC Deb 23 November 2000 vol 357 cc271-2W
Mr. Viggers

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the sufficiency of doctors, nurses and other staff at the Royal Hospital Haslar; and if he will make a statement. [139098]

Dr. Moonie

We have acknowledged that there are significant shortfalls in the Defence Medical Services and this is reflected in the manning situation at the Royal Hospital Haslar. However, Haslar continues to provide a broad spectrum of clinical services and when military personnel are unavailable, locum and full-time civilian personnel are employed where possible. We are working very closely with the Portsmouth Hospitals Trust to ensure services are maintained for the local military and civilian population.