§ Nick HarveyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what precautions(a) local hospitals and (b) emergency management services are planning to take in preparation for the crowds anticipated during the weekend of the Queen's Golden Jubilee; and if he will make a statement. [44596]
§ Ms BlearsPlanning for big events, including the Queen's Golden Jubilee, is co-ordinated by the local police forces built upon tried and tested procedures. There are established major incident procedures and cross border support mechanisms. All hospitals and ambulance services have major incident plans.
The main celebrations for the Queen's Golden Jubilee are being held in London. The Department of Culture, Media and Sport has an operational and safety planning group, which includes emergency services and health representatives, to oversee the safety and health aspects of the events in the Royal parks, the City of London and the processional route to St. Paul's Cathedral.
The intention is to use systems that are tried and tested in London at events such as the Notting Hill Carnival and the VE Day Anniversary Celebrations. These systems are designed to treat as many casualties as possible at the event sites using first aid posts or advance treatment centres which will be staffed by doctors, nurses and first aiders. This will reduce vehicle movements around the events and reduce potential pressure on accident and emergency departments.