§ Mr. Michael McNair-WilsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he has received a document "Anaesthetic Services For Obstetrics—A Plan For The Future" from the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland; whether, because of its implications for the future of small obstetric units, he will ensure that a full discussion takes place between the anaesthetists and his officials before final decisions are made; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. CurrieA copy of the document has been received and is being considered. There are at present no plans for officials to meet representatives of the Association. Anaesthetists are represented by the Royal College of Surgeons and discussions will take place with that body as necessary.
The Government's current policy, as set out in the reports of the maternity services advisory committee, is that women should be encouraged to have their babies in a hospital offering the range of obstetric paediatric and supporting services including anaesthetics necessary to cope with any emergency. Responsibility for determining the pattern of maternity services best suited to local needs and circumstances rests with individual health authorities.