§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what action she is taking to ensure adequate provision of lung surfactant in NHS neo-natal intensive care units; and if she will make a statement;
(2) what action is being taken by her Department to improve nursing staff levels in NHS neo-natal units; and if she will make a statement;
(3) what new resources or policy initiatives are being devoted by her Department to increasing the number of temperature monitors, blood pressure monitors. ventilators and incubators available in NHS neo-natal units, and to updating existing equipment; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleAllocations of funds to health authorities for purchasing health care services including neo-natal services are made on the basis of the size, age, distribution and relative health of their resident populations. Specific arrangements about staffing and equipment are matters for local decision. The Clinical Standards Advisory Group, set up by the United Kingdom Health Ministers, was asked to examine access to and availability of a number of specialised services, including neo-natal intensive care following the introduction of the national health service reforms. Its report and the Government's response will be published shortly. Health care purchasers and providers will need to take account of these in making decisions about future provision.
§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations she has received from the British Association of Perinatal Medicine on the appropriate provision of paediatric consultants for each neonatal unit; what response she has made; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleNo recent representations have been received from the British Association of Perinatal Medicine.