§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what action is being taken to remedy the under-use of operating theatres; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. CurrieNew data on the proportion of operations cancelled are being produced which will assist health authorities in their task of monitoring performance in this area. The management consultancy branch of the Department is carrying out a study into the management and organisation of operating theatre departments under the guidance of an independent steering group chaired by Professor Peter Gilroy Bevan. Good practice guidance will be considered in the light of its report which is expected early in 1989.