§ Mrs. Alice Mahon (Halifax)On a point of order, Madam Speaker. There is a report in the Evening Standard, and there has been a report on television, about a serious problem at the Homerton hospital, which had to close its accident and emergency department for 32 hours, arising from its inability to cope as a result of the closure of Bart's. There has just been a report of a man, seriously ill as a result of an accident, being turned away because of a bed shortage. I know that the Secretary of State for Health is facing the sack shortly, but surely, while she is still responsible for the national health service in London, she should be here making a statement on what is happening in London.
§ Madam SpeakerI have not been informed that the Secretary of State or any other Health Minister is making a statement today. But, as the hon. Lady is aware, we have a debate tomorrow on the health service in London. She may be fortunate enough to catch my eye and raise such matters then.
§ Mr. Malcolm Chisholm (Edinburgh, Leith)On a point of order, Madam Speaker. The Secretary of State for Social Security has said that he will make a statement this week restricting the funeral grant to £500. Has he said that he will make a statement to the House, which would be entirely appropriate in view of the mean-minded nature of the act, which will cause extreme stress at a time of great strain?
§ Madam SpeakerNo, I have not been told that such a statement is to be made in the House. As the hon. Gentleman is aware, it is for Ministers to determine whether to make a statement by means of a written answer or orally at the Dispatch Box.