§ Mr. Hancockasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will ensure that all possible help and expert advice will be given to the hospital authorities at St. Mary's hospital, Portsmouth, to investigate the outbreak of legionnaire's disease there.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe health authority has received expert help from the Public Health Laboratory Service and Potion Down, and in consultation with local medical advisers a decision was made to close seven wards and three operating theatres. There is no need for public alarm over these closures. The authority has acted responsibly in not taking any chances, and I have personally satisfied myself that the situation is being properly dealt with.