asked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the total number of patients awaiting treatment in the orthopaedic specialty in each of the eight area health authorities in Wales; and if he will specify the number waiting for more than (a) one month, (b) three months, (c) six months and (d) 12 months.

The latest available information is given in the following table. It relates to the position on 30 September 1981 and is not in precisely the form requested.National Health Service; what is his best estimate of the cost of treatment prior to operation for varicose veins in each of the areas of Wales; and if he will make a statement.

This information is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.