§ 49. Mr. W. Edwardsasked the Minister of Health what decision he has now reached on the proposal by the North-East Regional Hospital Board to close down the St. George-in-the-East Hospital, Wapping, E.1.
§ Mr. TurtonI am today approving the proposal, subject to the proviso that the hospital shall not be closed before 30th September, 1956.
§ Mr. EdwardsIn view of this disgraceful decision of the Minister as a result of a recommendation by the North-East Regional Hospital Board, supported by the Stepney Hospital Management Committee, will the Minister undertake in future to ensure that there will be representation upon these two bodies which can be left to put the case for the people of Stepney, Poplar and Bethnal Green when there is a question of closing down their hospitals for the first time under the National Health Service?
§ Mr. TurtonBefore reaching this decision, I received a deputation from all those interested in the matter. I gave very careful consideration to it. I do not think any body can claim that its view has not been very fully put.
§ Mr. HobsonWhy pick on the East End?