§ Dr. Michael Clarkasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received from people in South East Essex about the possible closure of the radiotherapy unit at Southend Hospital; whether he will discuss the matter with the chairman of the North-East Thames regional health authority; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HayhoeThese representations have opposed the closure of the radiotherapy unit at Southend hospital.
Following public consultation over an overall strategy for the region's cancer services the North-East Thames regional health authority has adopted a policy of moving towards a pattern of care focused on district general hospitals, supported by larger, better equipped specialist cancer treatment centres. The regional health authority has commissioned further research and will be considering recommendations on the choice of sites for the treatment centres at its July meeting. Any proposal to change the existing disposition of services will be subject to full public consultation under normal National Health Service procedures, including, if the relevant community health council objects, the referral of any final decision to Ministers. It would not, therefore, be appropriate to comment further at this stage.