To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken to ensure that the Protocol for the Scottish Surveillance Programme for Clostridium difficile Associated Disease , established by Health Protection Scotland prior to the opening of the national laboratory service at Stobhill hospital on 20 November 2007, has been followed, particularly in relation to the first criteria, severe cases.

NHS boards are responsible for ensuring they comply with national guidance as set out in the Health Protection Scotland (HPS) protocols for surveillance. NHS board practice in this area is also the subject of review by the HAI National Taskforce, chaired by the Chief Nursing Officer.