To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services when the report, commissioned by the manpower planning advisory group, on staffing of pathology laboratories was received by the National Health Service management board; how and when he intends to publish its findings; and if he will make a statement.

The report was considered by the manpower planning advisory group in February and referred by it to the National Health Service Management Board and regional chairmen. We intend to circulate the report to health authorities and others shortly.