§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans she has to review safety in hospitals to ensure the proper protection of patients and staff; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleThe Government place great importance on the creation of a safe and secure environment in hospitals as part of quality health care. Specific arrangements for the safety of patients and staff in hospitals, whether in relation to health and safety requirements or security, are a matter for local national health service employers. Guidance on both of these areas has been made available to hospitals by the NHS Executive ((EL(93)66) and (HSG(94)51)), copies of which are available in the Library.