§ Q92. Mr. HindTo ask the Prime Minister what representations she has received regarding the Government's achievements in expanding health care.
§ The Prime MinisterI have received a number of such representations. Since 1979, the level of resources for the NHS has increased by 40 per cent. in real terms and gross annual capital expenditure now stands at £1.25 billion. The numbers of those providing care has also increased, with 14,000 more doctors and dentists and 67,000 more nurses and midwives. There are now 1.5 million more in-patient cases treated in a year, 3.75 million more out-patient attendances and over 500,000 extra day cases. Considerable improvements have been made on screening, transplants and infant mortality. The Government have received much support for their commitment and record on expanding and improving the level of health care and for their proposals to build on these successes to create a service which is even more responsive to the needs of local communities whilst allowing patients improved choice.