§ Ms HarmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on equality of access to services in the national health service with particular reference to waiting lists.[6231]
§ Mr. HoramWe are committed to improving the health of the population as a whole and reducing variations in health status by targeting resources where needs are greatest. As far as patients requiring admission to hospital are concerned, emergency cases are always treated immediately. Patients not requiring emergency treatment are treated on the basis of clinical priority within the terms of the contracts agreed between health authorities and general practitioner fundholders and trusts.