§ Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services in view of the danger to lives of patients as a result of industrial action in hospitals and in view of the fact that urgent action is needed and that there is danger to patients resident in the Wessex area, including South Dorset, if he will state in terms what action he now proposes in order to safeguard life and health.
§ Mr. MoyleI deplore any industrial action which endangers the lives of patients. It is, however, impossible to 65W state in general terms what action would be required in the event of such industrial action occurring, as this would have to be decided in the light of circumstances.
I am informed by Wessex Regional Health Authority that the lives of patients in the region are not at present endangered by industrial action.