§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he proposes to take to prevent people of all ages from dying from fatal cardiac arhythmias. [143978]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonThe focus of this work is on early diagnosis for this group of patients. The Department is investing in diagnosis, investigation and treatment of cardiac related problems. In November 2001, the Department announced £65 million from the New Opportunities Fund (NOF) and £60 million from the Department of Health to enable the rapid expansion of facilities for angiography, to fund 89 new or replacement catheterisation laboratories. 24 sets of equipment have already been delivered.