§ Mr. Kenneth Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the average waiting time for an operation for the removal of tonsils at Nottingham Children's Hospital; how this compares with the average waiting time in the last four years; and if she will take steps to reduce this waiting time.
§ Dr. OwenWaiting periods for admission for non-acute conditions vary with specialty, patient's condition, availability of beds and emergency case load. Thus average waiting times are not meaningful. The time waited by patients at the Nottingham Children's Hospital in the last four years for which figures are available are:
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisPrecise information is not available, but I have no reason to question the estimate of 13,500 which Lady Sharp herself makes in paragraph 139 of her report. I am however having this figure checked and will write to the hon. Member as soon as possible.