§ 21. Mr. Whiteheadasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what recent communications he has had from the Derbyshire area health authority concerning hospital closures.
§ Dr. VaughanThe chairman for Derbyshire area health authority has recently written to inform me of his authority's decision to reopen Etwell hospital as a psycho-geriatric hospital in October 1981. I have replied to him, making it clear that I accept his decision, but urging that the hospital be reopened earlier if possible.
I have also corresponded with the chairman over the proposed closure of Parwich hospital and have asked him to discuss the Parwich hospital trust committee's proposals for the future of the hospital with the trust. I have made it clear that I am not prepared to agree to the closure of the hospital until I know the outcome of those discussions.