HC Deb 18 December 1985 vol 89 cc238-9W
Mr. Dobson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when his Department's questionnaire about cervical cancer provision was sent to each health authority; by what date they were asked to reply; and whether he intends to publish the outcome.

Mr. Hayhoe

I shall let the hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.

Mr. Dobson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the progress of discussions with health authorities on improving the effectiveness of laboratory facilities for processing cervical smears.

Mr. Hayhoe

In the course of the normal annual notification to health authorities of service priorities for planning purposes they will be asked to give priority within their available resources to improving their cervical screening programmes including ensuring that laboratories can meet demand. It will be for each health authority to decide what action is needed to achieve the latter objective in the light of local circumstances. No specific discussions on this issue are now proposed.