§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received on the future of Bart's Hospital; and when he expects to make a statement on his decision. [27372]
§ Ms JowellWe received a large number of representations on the future of St. Bartholomew's Hospital. Its future has been discussed with managers, clinicians and local people.
The Government announced their response to the Turnberg report in a statement to the House on 3 February 1998, Official Report, columns 843–46. We have accepted all the recommendations in the report, including the recommendation that St. Bartholomew's Hospital should not close.
As part of our ten year programme to modernise London's health services Bart's will continue in its present role while other hospital developments in east London take place; Bart's will then concentrate its renowned specialist expertise on cancer and cardiac services.