HC Deb 21 October 1986 vol 102 c859W
18. Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action he is taking to reduce hospital waiting times in Yorkshire.

Mr. Newton

We are determined that the Health Service will not only continue to treat increasing numbers of patients but that it will also treat them with the promptness which they have the right to expect. That is why my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State recently announced a three-year drive to reduce the time people have to wait for diagnosis and treatment. All regional health authorities, including Yorkshire, have been asked to prepare plans for action and to report back by the end of this month.