HC Deb 23 October 1986 vol 102 cc981-2W
Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will give the latest figures for the percentage of in-patient cases that have to wait for longer than one year in (a) the United Kingdom, (b) the west midlands region, (c) the four Thames regions, (d) the North Staffordshire district health authority and (e) the district health authorities with the highest and lowest percentage figures in the west midlands region;

(2) if he will give the latest figures for the percentage of urgent in-patient cases that have to wait for longer than one month in (a) the United Kingdom, (b) the west midlands region, (c) the four Thames regions, (d) the North Staffordshire district health authority and (e) the district health authorities with the highest and lowest percentage figures in the west midlands region.

Mr. Newton

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

Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how much additional money will be allocated to the hospital service specifically for the purpose of cutting waiting lists; and what representations he has received from health authority managers regarding the amount that would be required for a significant improvement.

Mr. Newton

Health authorities have been asked to report by the end of this month on how the position on waiting lists and times can be improved. The Government consider that there is much scope for improving services to patients and reducing waiting times by management action to bring about better use of resources.

Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will publish a list of district health authorities in rank order according to the percentage figure of in-patients who have to wait for over a year for treatment;

(2) if he will publish a list of district health authorities in rank order according to the percentage of urgent inpatient cases who have to wait for over a month.

Mr. Newton

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