§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has assessed in respect of changes to the Lothian health acute services strategy; when proposed revisions will be made available for public consultation; and when the acute services strategy will be implemented in full. [12751]
§ Mr. GalbraithIt is estimated that Lothian health board's acute services strategy will be implemented in full once the new royal infirmary of Edinburgh is operating, currently expected to be in 2003. Scottish Office officials are in regular contact with Lothian health board and the relevant trusts so that they are aware of any revisions to the original proposals within the acute services strategy. I would be informed of, and assess appropriately, any revisions which substantially affected the objectives or implementation of the strategy.