Jeremy Glyde, Safe and Sustainable Programme Director, said: "Members of the Joint Committee of Primary Care Trusts, professional associations and parent groups have highlighted the importance of reaching decisions urgently. We are pleased the Court of Appeal has acknowledged the urgency of this case by scheduling the hearing as soon as possible. We recognise that further delay is undesirable particularly for families and NHS staff. Assuming a successful outcome at appeal, the Joint Committee of PCTs remains committed to making a decision on the future of children’s congenital heart services in the spring."