HC Deb 26 June 1979 vol 969 cc261-2
Mr. Clinton Davis

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make an official visit to hospitals in the London borough of Hackney.

The Minister of State, Department of Health and Social Security (Dr. Gerard Vaughan)

The hon. Member for Hackney, South and Shoreditch (Mr. Brown) has already been to see me and I have told him that I shall include the City and Hackney health district in my official programme of visits in the near future.

Mr. Davis

I thank the Minister. Is he aware that there is appalling deprivation in that part of London? Is he also aware that the regional health authority has indicated that Hackney must make further cuts when that is quite impossible? Is it not completely irresponsible for the RHA to take that view?

Dr. Vaughan

No, it is not irresponsible. We are aware of the great needs in this part of London. Is not the hon. Member pointing out the disastrous situation that was left by the previous Government, whose policies led to increasing difficulties for the inner city areas and created great hardships for this part of London?

Mr. Ronald W. Brown

I thank the Minister for his meeting with me and his agreement to come to Hackney. Is it not a fact that, as a result of the Chancellor's increased VAT, an extra £3,500,000 has been added to the bill of the regional health authority?

Dr. Vaughan

Once again the hon. Member is drawing attention to the appalling situation left by the previous Government.

Mr. Davis

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the appalling and disgraceful nature of that reply, I give notice that I shall seek to raise this matter on the Adjournment.