§ Mr. Redwoodasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received concerning ward closures and other cuts in services in the West Berkshire district health authority area.
§ Mrs. CurrieWe have received representations from the chairman of the West Berkshire district health authority, Reading council and from a number of hon. Members.
Health authorities are expected to live within their budgets. This means balancing the cost of increasing activity against other pressures. It is for health authorities to decide on suitable measures which will enable them to sustain activity within their budgets without detriment to essential services.