London Ambulance Service

HC Deb 01 November 1979 vol 972 c651W

Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services why the petrol allowance to the London ambulance service has been cut by 25 per cent.

Sir George Young

The allocation of petrol to the London ambulance service has not been cut by 25 per cent. The National Health Service, in common with other users, has experienced a general reduction of 5 per cent. in its fuel supplies. This affected the London ambulance service particularly during the early summer, but since then the position has improved and the service is at present confident that it has adequate supplies of petrol to carry out its duties.

Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the serious shortage of staff at the Park Royal ambulance department.

Sir George Young

There is a general shortage of staff throughout the London ambulance service; the service is making effort to improve this situation. Emergency services are being maintained.