§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if, in view of experience in the northwest regional health authority he is satisfied with the longevity and performance of lithium batteries made by Catalyst Research Corporation and used to power heart pacemakers supplied under National Health Service; if he is giving any guidance to regional health authorities on this matter; and if he will make a statement; (2) how many patients are expected to require early replacement of their heart pacemaker batteries as a result of the premature failure of the lithium batteries supplied by Catalyst Research Corporation; if he will estimate the additional costs to the National Health Service arising from such premature failures; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI shall let the right hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.