To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps her Department is taking to encourage the participation of more (a) hospitals and (b) patients in stroke research studies. (146076)

The Department’s National Institute for Health Research is investing £20 million over five years in the United Kingdom Stroke Research Network set up in 2005. The Network is currently supporting 40 clinical trials and other well-designed studies conducted by public and private sector funders.

The Stroke Research Network works closely with patients, their carers and the public to ensure involvement at all levels of its activity.