To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what information he has on studies carried out on the usage of operating theatres in National Health Service hospitals by Peat Marwick McLintock; and if he will make a statement.

I understand that Peat Marwick McLintock has undertaken such studies on behalf of some health authorities. The studies were funded from the health authorities' resources since they dealt with problems identified locally. Any reports produced are confidential to the commissioning authority and are not released to the Department without their agreement. This is part of the professional relationship which exists between client and consultant.