§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to improve renal services in East Lancashire; and if he will make a statement. [82846]
§ Mr. HuttonThe four health authorities in Lancashire and South Cumbria, working together and with the National Health Service Executive North West, have identified capital investment of £1 million and revenue spending of approximately £1 million for 2000–01 to provide 15 additional dialysis stations. These facilities are 63W expected to be in place at the Royal Preston Hospital by next spring and will relieve pressure and lead to improvements in renal services throughout the area.