§ Mrs. EllmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what were the recommendations of the Clinical Implementation Group in respect of cleft lip and palate services for the North West Region. [15016]
§ Jacqui SmithCleft lip and palate services are one element in a wider discussion around tertiary children's services in the North West and we want to ensure that the very best integrated paediatric care is provided.
The Department's North West Regional Office produced a commissioning framework for cleft lip and palate services. A cleft review panel, which comprised local clinicians, commissioners, regional office representatives and national experts in cleft care including the chief executive of the Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA), met in June 2001 to review presentations from both tertiary paediatric trusts—Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital Trust and Central Manchester and Manchester Children's University Hospitals Trust. Discussions are taking place between the two trusts to reach agreement on the best configuration of cleft services for the north west and it is anticipated that a proposal will go to public consultation in January 2002.