I refer the Deputy to my reply of 3 October 2000 on this issue. There is no correct caesarean section rate and very many reasons influence what a hospitals caesarean section rate may be. As with all medical interventions, caesarean sections should only be undertaken for sound clinical reasons in the interest of both mothers and babies. My Department's chief medical officer has sought the views of the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists who are the organisation with professional responsibility for standards in this area. On receipt of their reply, the chief medical officer will consider how best this issue can be addressed.