Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Alun Cairns Excerpts
Wednesday 26th March 2014

(10 years, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
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Stephen Crabb Portrait Stephen Crabb
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The hon. Gentleman’s position is not correct and is not supported by the facts on the ground. He should not scaremonger and use old figures to suggest that businesses are scared to talk about reform and renegotiation. Investment is coming into the United Kingdom and into Wales. The prospects for the Welsh economy are very positive indeed.

Alun Cairns Portrait Alun Cairns (Vale of Glamorgan) (Con)
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6. What discussions he has had with Ministers of the Welsh Government on NHS waiting times in Wales.

David Jones Portrait The Secretary of State for Wales (Mr David Jones)
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As we have heard this morning, care standards in Wales are a matter of general concern. Long waiting times are just one aspect of that. As it is a devolved matter, it is for the Welsh Government to act.

Alun Cairns Portrait Alun Cairns
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Nearly 10% of urgent cancer cases wait more than 62 days for treatment. The target has not been met since 2008. Some 57% of urgent ambulance calls arrive within eight minutes. The target has been met only once in 22 months. Some 33% of patients wait longer than eight weeks for diagnostic services. Does the Secretary of State agree that that is completely unacceptable? Will he take the matter up with the First Minister in Wales, with the support of the Secretary of State for Health, to ensure that my—

John Bercow Portrait Mr Speaker
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Order. The hon. Gentleman should resume his seat. He has to work out his questions in advance. That question was far too long. He really has to practise.