§ 28. Mr. IllsleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received regarding the level of the standard mortality ratio in the Barnsley area. [92615]
§ Yvette CooperHigh level performance indicators show that the standard mortality rate for Barnsley in the age range 65-74 years is 103, compared with the national figure for England of 90. The comparatively poor health status of Barnsley, particularly with regard to coronary heart disease, stroke and some cancers, evident from measures such as the high level performance indicators and standard mortality rates, has been recognised. Barnsley (together with Rotherham and Doncaster) was designated last year in the first wave of health action zones which are at the vanguard of our new approach to tackling health inequalities, through partnership working and with targeted investment to achieve modernisation, reform and results.