18.
asked the Minister of Health what action is being taken to reduce the waiting period of 15 months being experienced by children awaiting tonsil and adenoid operations at the Manchester Ear Hospital, All Saints, Manchester.
I am informed that the regional board have arranged to transfer some of those on the waiting list to Wythenshawe Hospital, where the average waiting time has been considerably reduced in recent months, and are considering similar transfers to other hospitals.
I am obliged to the right hon. Gentleman for that information. Is he aware that children have a longer period of waiting at this hospital than at any other in Manchester and that it is situated in one of the most densely-populated parts of the city? In addition to the action which the regional hospital board propose to take, will he also ask the executive council to consult the general practitioners with a view to their directing patients, in the first place, to some of the hospitals which have a smaller waiting list?
I have tried by the means that I have indicated to get over the difficulty, because I realise that the facilities in Manchester are fully used. I shall be very glad to look into the suggestion which the hon. Gentleman has made.
Is it not time that the Minister took a special and personal interest in this matter, which is causing great anxiety to patients not only in Manchester but in the surrounding areas of Lancashire and also in Heston and Isleworth, as indicated in the next Question. Will he try to expedite earlier treatment of these children?
I do take a personal interest, and I think that the answer I have given indicates that at least some improvements in that area have been made.