§ 3. Mr. Gowerasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he is aware of continuing concern at Barry and in adjacent parts of South-East Glamorgan, regarding the future of the Barry Accident and Surgical Hospital; and if he will give an assurance that Barry and district will not be deprived of the services of this hospital.
§ The Minister of State, Welsh Office (Mrs. Eirene White)Yes, Sir. The Welsh Hospital Board will shortly be carrying out local consultations about the reorganisation of hospital services in the greater Cardiff area, which includes Barry. My right hon. Friend will consider the Board's proposals for the Barry Accident and Surgical Hospital in the light of representations received as a result of these consultations.
§ Mr. GowerIs the Minister of State aware that in recent years hardly any issue has caused such deep concern over a wide area than the possibility which has been mooted that this hospital might be discontinued? Will the Minister and her right hon. Friend bear in mind that in the summer time this area provides hospital services for a total population well in excess of 100,000?
§ Mrs. WhiteAs the hon. Gentleman is aware, the whole purpose of holding consultations is precisely that such considerations should be given their full weight.