§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what evaluation he has undertaken into the efficiency of the league tables for hospital cleanliness; and what plans he has to amend them. [127707]
§ Mr. HuttonThe patient environment action team programme, and the resulting 'traffic light' ratings awarded to hospitals, have been significant factors in improving the environmental conditions, including standards of cleanliness, in hospitals.
Since the introduction of the system the number of 'Green' hospitals has increased from 22 per cent. to 78 per cent. (2000–2003) while the number being assessed as 'Red' has fallen from 36 per cent. to zero over the same period.
There are no plans at present to change the system.