§ 1. Sir Michael NeubertTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many accident and emergency units are currently proposed for closure in Greater London.
§ The Minister for Health (Mr. Gerald Malone)A number of London health authorities are considering proposals for change to the current pattern of accident and emergency services.
§ Sir Michael NeubertShould not ease of access by road and proximity to the main centres of population be the overriding factors in determining the location of accident and emergency units? Do not those considerations point overwhelmingly to the continuing need for Oldchurch hospital in that all-important life and death role?
§ Mr. MaloneI congratulate my hon. Friend on the fact that on the two occasions that I have so far appeared at the Dispatch Box, he has been able to represent the interests of his constituents in this matter, which he does extremely assiduously. As I told him in the debate on Friday, his representations will be considered by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State, as the matter is now before her.
§ Ms ChurchWill the Minister undertake to make a visit to Harold Wood hospital so that he can see for himself the great difficulty that my constituents will encounter if the proposed closure of the accident and emergency department at Oldchurch hospital goes ahead?
§ Mr. MaloneI am be extremely keen to inform myself in whatever way is absolutely necessary to be sure of all the facts. I have undertaken a number of visits to accident and emergency units around London since I was appointed to my post. I remind the hon. Lady that the overriding requirement for the reformation of accident and emergency services across London is continuing quality of patient care and the proper provision of services for all patients.
§ Mr. DykesIn terms both of the accident and emergency services and of the other services, will my hon. Friend pledge to do all that he can to save Edgware general hospital from closure?
§ Mr. MaloneThose are clearly matters to be decided at a local level. Even in my short time at the Dispatch Box, I have noticed with interest that many people are in favour of changing the structure of services in London, but when it comes to their constituency interests they make particular representations. One cannot restructure services in London without making sure that that is done in a proper and sensitive way. I repeat to my hon. Friend the point that I made earlier—quite simply, it is the quality of overall patient care in London that will inform us as we proceed with any changes.
§ Mr. DykesOn a point of order, Madam Speaker. In view of that reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.
§ Madam SpeakerI am sorry, but I cannot accept that request from the hon. Member because Question 1 was not his substantive question.