§ 32. Mr. Duffyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action she proposes to take in connection with the recent report of the Health Service Ombudsman, Sir Alan Marre.
§ Mrs. CastleCopies of the Health Service Commissioner's report have been sent by my Department to regional and area health authorities. The report mentions failure in communication between staff and patients as a frequent reason why complaints arise and health authorities will be reminded of the importance of good communications. The need for better management of waiting lists is brought out in the report and my Department will shortly be issuing fresh guidance to health authorities on this matter. The Commissioner also refers in his report to the Davies Committee's recom-96W mendations on hospital complaints procedure about which I hope to make an announcement shortly.