§ 26. Mrs. Knightasked the Minister of Health what consultations he had with outside bodies before he decided to regroup the psychiatric hospitals in the Birmingham Regional Hospitals area.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonI have not yet made a decision on the proposals for re-grouping submitted to me by the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board. I understand that the Board consulted widely before making their proposals to me.
§ Mrs. KnightIs the Minister aware that the hospital management committees concerned are extremely worried about the way in which this decision has been reached?
§ Mr. RobinsonThe hon. Lady should understand that no decision has been 992 reached. This is a recommendation by the Board which was submitted to me earlier this month. Under the proposals psychiatric hospitals which are now in eight separate groups under their own management committees would be grouped with neighbouring general hospitals under new management committees. I am considering these proposals not only in the light of the views of the Board, but of the hospital management committees and the other interests which have been consulted.
§ Mr. Victor YatesIs the Minister prepared to receive a deputation of hon. Members from both sides of the House—which I have already asked him to do—so that we can put this matter clearly to him, because there is strong feeling about it?
§ Mr. RobinsonI am always willing to hear the views of hon. Members of this House on matters of this kind.