§ Ms JowellTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what consideration has been given to the desirability of locating obstetric, gynaecology and children's services on site so that they are readily accessible by hospital accident and emergency services.
§ Mr. SackvilleAccident and emergency departments should only be located in major hospitals, supported by a range of specialties on site and have good communications with specialties which are not on site. It is for purchasers and provider units to determine the most effective configuration of local provision for paediatric, obstetric and gynaecology services, which take full account of the needs of the local population and ensures that timely support is available to the accident and emergency service where appropriate.