HC Deb 13 June 1979 vol 968 cc249-50W
Mr. Rooker

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many of the extra 400 kidney machines promised in the Budget Statement of 11 April 1978 were in service with each regional health authority at 31 March 1979; and if he will make a statement giving the reasons for any shortfall in provision showing the amount of underspend.

Dr. Vaughan

Authorities found it possible in 1978–79 to spend about half of the additional resources for the expansion of renal services arising from the 1978 Budget; resources equivalent to the remainder have been set aside in this financial year for authorities to continue with the plans for at least 418 additional patients to be treated by dialysis. It is not yet possible to state how many of these patients had started treatment by 31 March 1979.