§ Mrs. BeckettTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many hospitals have closed since April 1991.
§ Mr. RichardsSeventeen NHS hospitals in Wales have closed, and remain closed, since 1 April 1991. In all but one case this has enabled patients to be moved to better facilities or into the community.
In one instance, responsibility for the care provided was transferred from the NHS to social and probation services.
§ Mrs. BeckettTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales for how many accident and emergency departments there are currently proposals for closure.
§ Mr. RichardsNone. The strategic reviews in south and west Glamorgan do, however, involve a transfer of these services to more appropriate locations nearby.