asked the Secretary of State for Wales what action he is taking following the criticisms of the Clwyd Area Health Authority made by the Parliamentary Commissioner in the case of Mrs. Ellen Hughes, deceased.

My right hon. and learned Friend has seen Lord Kenyon, the Chairman of Clwyd Area Health Authority. He told him that he is deeply dismayed and has asked him to ensure that no such case can arise in future. My right hon. and learned Friend has asked Lord Kenyon to convey his views to his authority.

Does the Minister agree that this is one of the strongest reports ever to have come from the Parliamentary Commissioner, using words like "inhuman conduct" and implying dishonesty on the part of officials of the health authority? Will the hon. Gentleman give a guarantee that there will be no cover-up following this report?

There will be no cover-up. It is one of the strongest reports, and I should like to tell the hon. Member that the Clwyd Area Health Authority is discussing the case today and will consider what action is necessary. Its meetings are open to the public.

Will the hon. Gentleman remember that, whatever the shortcomings of the Clwyd Area Health Authority in investigating this matter, the hospital concerned, in spite of this one unfortunate lapse, enjoys wide confidence and sympathy for the excellent work it does in the community?

The observations of the hon. Member speak for themselves.