§ Mr. Strangasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) when he intends to announce his decision on the proposed closures of Bruntsfield and Deaconess hospitals in Edinburgh;
(2) whether he has had any communication from the Lothian health board about proposed hospital closures; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayLothian health board decided on 10 January to seek the approval of my right hon. Friend for closure of the Bruntsfield and Deaconess hospitals. I understand a formal submission by the board is in course of preparation which I expect to receive shortly.
My right hon. Friend and I shall give careful consideration to the proposals from the health board and the comments and representation made on the suggested closures. It is not possible at present to say when a decision is likely to be announced.