§ Mr. Heddleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many patients within the West Birmingham health district have applied for a first appointment to the Centre for the Hearing-—impaired, Western Road: 291W Birmingham; and if he will investigate the reasons why patients are being informed that the waiting time for a first appointment is 28 months.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinI regret that the information requested is not centrally available. I understand, however, that the Birmingham area health authority (teaching) is extremely concerned about the waiting list at this centre and that it is currently discussing with the district management team ways of improving the service. My hon. Friend may wish to seek further information from the health authority.