HC Deb 09 February 2004 vol 417 c1206W
Mr. Amess

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what criteria the Health Ombudsman uses in deciding whether to investigate a complaint against a health authority; and what assessment the Ombudsman makes of convenors' reports in making decisions about investigating complaints. [152156]

Ms Rosie Winterton

This is a matter for the Health Service Ombudsman.

Mr. Amess

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance he issues to health authorities on the timescale for dealing with complaints. [152157]

Ms Rosie Winterton

Guidance on the operation the national health service complaints procedure was issued in March 1996, including details on the performance targets for dealing with complaints. The guidance is available on the Department's website at www. doh.gov.uk/complaints.

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