Oral Question

Mr. Nicholas Soames (Mid-Sussex) (Con): Given the great importance of these services, will the Minister confirm that the working time directive has not had an adverse effect on the service provided?

Member Answering Question: Mike O'Brien MP, Minister of State, Department of Health:

Answer: It is important that we ensure that the quality of delivery of care in the NHS is not compromised by staff who are overtired and unable to make the difficult judgments that we often call on them to make. We have to ensure that the working time directive is delivered appropriately and that staff comply with it.