§ Mr. AltonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many representations she has now received about the closure of Broadgreen accident and emergency unit; how many beds will be lost; what compensatory provision for accident and emergency patients will be made at the Liverpool Royal hospital; and what it will cost to provide these extra beds.
§ Mr. SackvilleWe have received 36 representations from hon. Members, approximately 23,000 letters from members of the public and a number of petitions. Liverpool health authority's consultation document proposing the closure of Broadgreen accident and emergency unit suggests that increasing the efficiency of Liverpool's hospitals to the national average in 1990 will enable services to be delivered from 500 fewer beds across the whole Liverpool conurbation. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State is currently considering Liverpool health authority's proposals and will take all factors into account before making a final decision. Under those proposals, A and E services currently provided at Broadgreen will be covered by improved facilities at the630W Royal Liverpool, Aintree and Whiston hospitals. For more information, the hon. Member may wish to contact Mr. D. H. Tod, chairman of Liverpool health authority.