Reverend the Hon. FRED NILE: I ask a question without notice of the Attorney General, representing the Minister for Health. Is it a fact that a recent tragedy occurred at Royal North Shore Hospital whereby a distressed pregnant mother, with symptoms of a potential miscarriage, was left to wait for some hours in the emergency department? Is it also a fact that the mother had a miscarriage in the toilets of the emergency department and was found by her distressed husband holding her live 14-week-old baby? What are the protocols or procedures at New South Wales public hospitals when a pregnant mother with symptoms of a miscarriage seeks urgent medical care and, if necessary, treatment? Will every urgent action be taken to save such babies, if possible?

The Hon. JOHN HATZISTERGOS: I am aware of the details of this case that have been reported in the media. Of course my thoughts go out to the family concerned at this time of tragic loss. The Minister for Health has ordered an investigation into the incident. No doubt that will deal with some of the issues referred to in the honourable member's question. But to the extent that the question raises other issues, I will refer them to the Minister.