Adela Shaw Orthopaedic Hospital, Kirkbymoorside

HC Deb 16 July 1968 vol 768 c1225

11. Mr. Turton

asked the Minister of Health whether he is now satisfied that the Leeds Regional Hospital Board carried out the procedure laid down in Ministry circulars in formulating their proposals in respect of the Adela Shaw Orthopaedic Hospital, Kirkbymoorside; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. K. Robinson

Yes, Sir. The Board is continuing to consult local interests and has not yet submitted formal proposals to me.

Mr. Turton

Should not the procedure be revised if, as in this case, the house committee of the hospital and the local authorities, including the medical officers of health, do not learn of a proposal until the staff are warned of an impending closure? Is this not extremely damaging for management and the morale of the staff?

Mr. Robinson

My information is that the board is considering the future of this hospital in relation to plans to concentrate and develop facilities in Scarborough. Local consultations are proceeding, and the board has not yet decided what proposals to put forward. That is my information.