Philip Dunne has raised his concerns at apparent delays in the PCT receiving adequate supplies of vaccine from manufacturers this year compared with previous years.

This was confirmed by the PCT Chief Executive in a letter in which she acknowledged supplies of vaccine were being delivered later and in staggered deliveries as a result of technical difficulties in manufacture.

An answer to a Parliamentary Question shows that last year Shropshire County PCT had a better than average performance in vaccinating by the end of January 2006 76% of those aged 65 and over. By November 2006 this winter's programme had reached only 59% as a result of the delays.

Mr Dunne added: "I have today confirmed with the PCT that they are catching up, with 71.3% of those most at risk from flu vaccinated by the end of December. The PCT tell me they hope to exceed last year's performance by the end of this month.

I am writing to the Health Minister to seek assurances that this season's supply problems will be sorted out so that the vaccination programme can get back to normal as soon as possible."