HC Deb 20 February 1990 vol 167 c723W
109. Mr. Patrick Thompson

To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether any steps are being taken to ensure that operating theatres are utilised effectively.

Mr. Freeman

In December 1989 a report by the Department's value for money unit on the management and utilisation of operating departments was issued to health authorities. This made a number of recommendations concerning the efficient utilisation of operating theatres, and suggested a target planned level of utilisation of 90 per cent. should be achievable. The Department is currently consulting health authorities and others about guidance following the recommendations made in the study report, copies of which are available in the Library.