§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services which three health authorities have declined to make early home defence planning appointments; and what objections they have raised.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThe South-Western regional health authority has not yet approved such a post but is to take a decision on 14 December. Earlier this year the West Midlands RHA decided not to create such a post. I understand that those members of the RHA who voted against the creation of the post expressed doubts about the value of planning for the aftermath of a nuclear war, in which they believe there would be few or no survivors. The matter is being pursued with the RHA.