§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what his plans are for the future inspection of pathology laboratories. [123753]
§ Mr. HuttonCurrently, registration for accreditation of pathology laboratories in the United Kingdom is voluntary, except for cervical cytology laboratories. To improve clinical governance, raise quality standards and improve openness and transparency for patients, we believe that the current voluntary system for laboratory accreditation is no longer acceptable. We have, therefore, decided that all National Health Service pathology laboratories in England should enrol with an appropriate accreditation scheme. Further information will be contained in theDepartment of Health document on modernising pathology services, which will be published shortly.