§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why the waiting times for out-patients' appointments at the Central Middlesex Hospital now amount to 26 weeks for ENT, 18 weeks for varicose veins, 27 weeks for orthopaedics and 13 weeks for urology; if there are vacancies for medical staff in the establishment provided for these specialties; if the consultants operate a common waiting list for private and NHS patients; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. OwenRecent medical staff sickness and a vacancy have affected the waiting times in orthopaedic and urology respectively. Nevertheless in all these specialties patients needing urgent attention are given special priority. Currently there are no medical staff vacancies in these specialties. It is unusual for out-patients to be seen privately at this hospital.