§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received about the waiting times for appointments for operations in the various health authority areas; if it is his intention to hold an investigation into the problem; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenWe have received some representations from hon. Members and from the public about the length of waiting time for admission for in-patient treatment in individual specialties in particular places. On a national basis, progress is being made in reducing waiting lists. There has been a continuing downward trend, following the disruption caused by the 1982 industrial action. In March 1979 total waiting lists stood at 752,422; by March 1984 they had been reduced to 692,945.