§ Mr. Orbachasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the number of operations for the termination of pregnancy, septic abortions and incomplete abortions at the Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport, in the quarter ending 31st March, 1967, and the quarter ending 31st March, 1969, respectively.
§ Mr. CrossmanThe following is the information:
Quarter ending 31st March 1967 Quarter ending 31st March 1969 Termination of Pregnancy 16 50 Septic Abortions Nil 2 Incomplete Abortions 31 17
§ Mr. Orbachasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) whether he is 274W aware that the closing of the gynaecological ward at Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport, is causing hold-ups in patients' admissions and operations; and when it proposed to re-open this ward;
(2) whether he is aware that a mother in Stockport awaiting a fertility operation cannot be admitted to Stepping Hill Hospital, having been informed by her doctor that the wards are filled with women awaiting abortions; and if he will take steps to ensure that facilities are readily available for woman in need of gynaecological operations other than abortions.
§ Mr. CrossmanThe priority to be accorded to the treatment of a particular patient is a matter for clinical judgment. On 9th June, 1969, 12 gynaecological beds were closed owing to shortage of nurses and it is not yet possible to say when they will be re-opened. 40 gynaecological beds are still in use.