§ Mr. Neubertasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the 602W existing facilities for the public mortuary at Oldchurch Hospital, Romford; on how many occasions in the last 10 years and in what circumstances the present capacity has been exceeded; whether the statutory standards have been complied with at all times; and whether he is satisfied that the service could cope with a major accident in the area.
§ Dr. OwenThe mortuary built in 1970 with 24 refrigerated chambers, three postmortem tables, an embalming table and a chapel, also serves Barking and Havering local authorities. Records do not show when the capacity has been exceeded, but it is known that four instances following holiday periods occurred in the last 12 months. I understand that plans for extension of the facilities are under consideration. In the event of a major accident, special temporary arrangements involving the policy authority would be brought into operation if required.