Mr. Alan WilliamsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what representations have been made to the end of 1991 by West Glamorgan health authority for assistance with its waiting list for ophthalmic cases.
(2) what bids for funding under the waiting list initiative has been made by each health authority to clear waiting lists for ophthalmic operations.
§ Mr. Nicholas BennettTo help with its ophthalmic waiting lists, West Glamorgan health authority made a bid for funds under the 1991–92 waiting times initiative. Out of the £1.3 million available at the all Wales level the authority received a total of £256,000, including £49,000 specifically for ophthalmic lists.
In addition, between March and December 1991, 85 West Glamorgan residents were referred to the two ophthalmic treatment centres at Bangor and Bridgend, and benefited from the opportunity to receive earlier treatment through this initiative which is unique to Wales.
315WWest Glamorgan health authority has also received an extra £250,000 towards reducing waiting lists, part of an overall package of £1.8 million which I announced today. This is aimed at further reducing waiting lists throughout Wales.