§ Mr. Laurence RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what discussions he has had with(a) Gloucestershire primary care trusts and (b) Gloucestershire hospital trusts about their budgetary shortfalls for 2003–04; and if he will make a statement; [134045]
(2) if he will make a statement on the proposed cuts in services (a) at Tewkesbury Hospital and (b) in Gloucestershire. [134046]
§ Ms Rosie Winterton [holding answer 23 October 2003]:In line with the Government's policy of shifting the balance of power, responsibility for performance and financial management of local national health servie organisations now rests with strategic health authorities (SHAs).
The Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire SHA is working closely with all organisations within the local health community to ensure that robust plans are in place to achieve year end financial balance and achievement of NHS plan targets. The SHA is having regular meetings with all three local primary care trusts (PCTs) and the hospital trust to monitor progress.
The PCTs and the hospital trust are reviewing service provision and are currently considering a range of measures, including the utilisation of community hospital beds.