§ Sir D. Walker-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether she has yet been able to consider the views of the Hertfordshire Area Health Authority, transmitted to the regional health authority, on the proposed closure of the maternity unit at the Herts and Essex Hospital; and if she will make a statement as to her reconsideration of the matter.
§ Dr. Owen:I understand that the Hertfordshire Area Health Authority's views have not yet been transmitted to the regional health authority and are not yet known to me. I am therefore not able to make a statement on the proposed closure.