§ 35. Mr. John Evansasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans he has to reduce hospital waiting lists; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EnnalsSince reaching a peak in December 1976, the waiting list for hospital in-patient admission has fallen for each of the three quarters for which figures are available. It still stands at an unacceptably high level and I shall continue with health authorities actively to seek ways of achieving further reductions. Additional funds for this purpose were announced in the Budget Statement.
§ 49. Sir George Youngasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many urgent cases are awaiting admission to National Health Service hospitals in Great Britain.
§ Mr. MoyleThis figure is only collected for England. On 30th September 1977—the latest date for which figures are available—it was 40,257; 6.6 per cent. of the total awaiting treatment.