§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will initiate an inquiry into the caseload of the accidents and emergency ward at West Middlesex, with particular reference to the circumstances surrounding the death of a patient in the ward on 6 December. [64931]
§ Mr. DenhamWe do not believe that an inquiry into the caseload of the accident and emergency department at West Middlesex University Hospital National Health Service Trust is warranted. All hospitals face winter pressures of varying degrees and Ealing, Hammersmith and Hounslow Health Authority have been allocated £2.5 million winter pressures moneys which is being spent on relieving any pressure areas, including opening additional beds when required.
It would not be possible to comment on the circumstances of an individual patient's care without breaking confidentiality. We would wish to extend our sympathies to the family concerned.