§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will review the demands, in terms of working hours, made on junior doctors in hospitals in Birmingham, Bristol and Southampton; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaloneThe new deal on junior doctors' hours, copies of which are available in the Library, provides for a phased, programme of action to reduce junior doctors' contracted hours and hours of work.
Our regional task forces, including those covering Birmingham, Bristol and Southampton, constantly review progress towards the targets for reducing hours. They are in regular contact with all hospitals to give support and to 89W monitor implementation. Part of this process is to assess with hospitals the need for further action to reduce juniors' working hours. Action is also monitored nationally and I receive regular progress reports from each task force.