§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on progress on visiting times for accident and emergency services at Barnet Hospital. [78901]
§ Mr. HuttonImproving patients experience of emergency care is essential. In light of this,Reforming Emergency Care was launched in October 2001, supported by a £118 million investment. It sets a long term programme of reform supported by extra investment and new capacity to address one of the public's key concerns about the National Health Service— waiting in accident and emergency (A&E).
A&E waiting times at Barnet General Hospital have improved steadily through the year from an average of only 45 per cent. of patients being seen within four hours in the quarter ending 30 June 2002 to over 70 per cent. being seen within four hours during October 2002.
§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans there are to discontinue services provided at Barnet Hospital; and if he will make a statement. [78899]
§ Mr. HuttonThere are no plans to discontinue services provided at Barnet hospital.