§ Mr. Andrew F. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many items of National Health Service equipment have been lent over the last four years to consultants and others from the operating theatre at Stepping Hill hospital, Stockport, to enable them to carry out work at other National Health Service hospitals or private hospitals and clinics, respectively; how many such items have not been returned; and what steps have been taken to charge for materials not returned.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeSuch information is not available centrally. I have had no cause for concern brought to my attention, but I am making inquiries of the chairman of Stockport health authority, which is responsible for managing Stepping Hill hospital, about the arrangements for the matters raised by the hon. Member.
§ Mr. Andrew F. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what evidence he has of the use of equipment belonging to hospitals in the north-west in institutions outside those hospitals.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeWe do not collect information centrally about the use of equipment in hospitals up and down the country. I would advise the hon. Member to address any inquiries he has to the chairman of the District health authority concerned.