(2) what representations he has received on the impact of the 18 week target on the standard of orthopaedic treatment provided to patients.
The British Orthopaedic Association and others are represented on the 18 weeks clinical advisory group which is developing advice to help local areas deliver high quality, safe treatment within 18 weeks for the most common conditions, including orthopaedics.
On capacity, the Department is satisfied with the assurance of strategic health authorities that local health services are planning adequate orthopaedic activity to make the necessary progress in 2007-08 towards the 18 weeks target.