asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether, in view of the findings of the recent report from the University of Manchester institute of science and technology, he will take steps to reduce the amount of trivial cases taken to accident and emergency departments by advising registered patients that they should first, if possible, contact their own practice premises.

Leaflets are available for issue to patients advising them to go to their own doctor if possible in an accident or emergency. We are considering with the Central Office of Information a revision of the current leaflet, together with other means of publicity.