§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what will be the effect of the outcome of the South Manchester health authority's meeting on 16 July relating to cuts in spending on staffing levels at the Christie, Wythenshawe and Withington hospitals; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he will make a statement on the future of hospital services in south Manchester for lung cancer, cardiothoracic and vascular patients in the light of the South Manchester health authority's meeting on 16 July relating to cuts in spending in the years 1987–88 and 1988–89;
70W(3) in how many recent cases patient care has suffered in south Manchester's hospitals in consequence of inadequate staffing levels; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. CurrieResponsibility for managing health services within South Manchester is the responsibility of South Manchester health authority which has enjoyed substantial real growth in resources in recent years. The right hon. Member may therefore wish to address his enquiries to the chairman of that authority.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will visit south Manchester to discuss with the district health authority and representatives of hospital staffs there the impending cuts in expenditure of £5.9 million in the period up to 31 March 1989.
§ Mrs. CurrieSouth Manchester health authority has enjoyed 7 per cent. real growth in revenue expenditure since 1982–83. My hon. Friend and I have visited Manchester often to see examples of how health services in the city have benefitted. Planning the use of these resources in South Manchester up to 1989 and beyond is the responsibility of the district health authority in conjunction with the regional health authority. These two bodies are in routine regular contact on these matters.