asked the Secretary of State for Social Services, whether she is satisfied with the dentist-patient ratio in the Leek parliamentary constituency; and if she is satisfied that the emergency dentist service in the constituency is working satisfactorily.

There is a shortage of general dental practitioners both in Leek and nationally, but the number of dentists on the register is increasing steadily each year. Emergency dental services are a matter for local arrangement. I understand that there is no formal emergency service in the constituency, but I am not aware of any difficulties in obtaining treatment.