asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what progress he has made with the chairman of the West Berkshire health authority in recognising the Association of Professional Ambulance Personnel for industrial relations purposes; and if he will make a statement.

We expect health authorities to recognise any organisation which a significant number of their staff have chosen to join. The association's request for recognition by West Berkshire is a matter for the health authority to determine and my hon. Friend may wish to write direct to the chairman.