§ Mr. Pikeasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) whether the quota system introduced by the Lancashire ambulance service conforms with the requirements of circular HC(78)45 on "Ambulance Services: Operational Control and Use";
(2) whether he has received any representations regarding the introduction of a quota system by Lancashire ambulance service;
(3) if he will investigate whether the Preston health authority in introducing a quota system for the Lancashire ambulance service has acted in accordance with paragraph 19 of the Community Health Council's regulations 1985 statutory instrument 304/1985, in respect of notifying community health councils in Lancashire of the substantial variation in the provision of ambulance services.
§ Mr. WhitneyI understand Preston health authority is trying to control unnecessary ambulance journeys. Where 495W there is medical need for transport by the ambulance service it is being provided. This meets the requirements of HC(78)45 and does not appear to represent a substantial variation in service. We have received no representations about this.