§ 28. Mr. Leslie Huckfieldasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will investigate the numbers of National Health Service and private patients admitted to hospital during the hospital ancillary workers dispute, and publish his findings.
§ Mr. AlisonI would refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's reply to his Question of 16th March.—[Vol. 852, c.455.]
§ 34. Mr. Skinnerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the hospital ancillary workers.
§ Sir K. JosephI have had several informal discussions with the trade unions concerned.
§ 36. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will investigate allegations by members of the National Union of Public Employees that in hospitals affected by strike action National Health Service patients have been turned away in favour of private abortion patients; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Sir K. JosephSuch allegations made about hospitals in the Newcastle-upon-Tyne area were fully investigated by the regional hospital board. The board found that during the period in question admis-38W sion has been governed only by the relative clinical urgency for treatment.