§ 2. Mr. Nicholas Edwardsasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will now make a statement on the future of the hospital service in Pembrokeshire.
§ The Secretary of State for Wales (Mr. Peter Thomas)I am satisfied that the recommendations in the Report made to me by my Chief Medical Officer offer a reasonable solution to the problem of the health services in Pembrokeshire. The Welsh Hospital Board and others concerned are being informed.
§ Mr. EdwardsI welcome my right hon. and learned Friend's acceptance of these recommendations, which I understand have also been accepted by the Welsh Hospital Board. Can he confirm that everyone concerned is being asked to co-operate fully? What steps are being taken as a matter of urgency to ensure that the accident unit is adequately manned in accordance with the recommendations?
§ Mr. Peter ThomasSome of the comments made to the Department were to the effect that there should be a consultant in charge. I was impressed by the arguments, and I propose to seek the advice of the Advisory Committee on Consultant Establishment to that effect.
§ Mr. Fred EvansIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman similarly impressed by the arguments for retaining Caerphilly Miners' Hospital?
§ Mr. Peter ThomasI have considered the representations made to me in that case and am giving them very close consideration.