Written question asked by Malcolm Moss (Conservative) on Wednesday, 8 July 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 21 July 1998. It was answered by Tony Worthington (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 July 1998 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what plans she has for the provision of lung and oesophageal cancer services at the Royal Victoria Hospital.

Answer: Mr. Moss: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans she has for the provision of lung and oesophageal cancer services at the Royal Victoria Hospital. [50132] Mr. Worthington: The Royal Victoria Hospital currently provides a regional thoracic surgery service for patients with lung and oesophageal cancers. The Cancer Working Group Sub Group on Lung Cancer recommended that purchasers should make arrangements for the appointment of a third thoracic surgery consultant at the Royal Victoria Hospital and assess the need for the future appointment of a fourth consultant. The Royal Group of Hospitals and Dental Hospitals HSS Trust is currently advertising for a third thoracic surgeon. The need for a fourth thoracic surgeon will be kept under review in light of anticipated increases in the lung and oesophageal cancer workload.

Secondary information