§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how often the North Wales police helicopter is used for transporting accident victims to hospitals or transferring patients from one hospital to another; how much has been reclaimed from the health authorities for this service; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Charles WardleBetween 1 October 1992 and 31 December 1993 a total of 65 casualties were conveyed to hospital by helicopter—3 per cent. of the helicopter's total usage. No payment has been requested from health authorities in respect of casualty evacuations in this financial year. Negotiations are taking place with the North Wales ambulance trust about charges in the next financial year when the helicopter is used at the trust's request.
The use of the helicopter in medical emergencies is confined to cases where the casualty's life is at risk, or where the use of a land vehicle would be impractical. The police helicopter may also be used to move patients between one hospital and another where such assistance is likely to save life. The sum of £4,900 has been received from hospitals for three such flights in the current financial year.
§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the monthly operating cost of52W the North Wales constabulary's helicopter; what is the helicopter's total mileage since being brought into service; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Charles WardleThe average monthly cost of the North Wales police helicopter in 1993–94 is expected to be about £59,000. This includes an element of cost involved in establishing the air support unit, and therefore should reduce next year.
Helicopter usage is measured in flying hours rather than by distance covered. From the start of the operation on 1 October 1992 up to 31 December 1993, the helicopter recorded 795 flying hours.