HC Deb 28 April 2003 vol 404 c280W
Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether current employment arrangements in the NHS provide for breaks for non-medical staff involved in providing support to operating theatre teams to be taken during operating time. [1091981

Mr. Hutton

It is the responsibility of National Health Service employers to adhere to the requirements of the Working Time Regulations, which provides for rest breaks.

General guidance (HSC 1998/204) was issued to employers on the implementation of the Regulations in the NHS.

The aim is to provide quality patient care by ensuring minimum standards of rest for all staff in the NHS.