§ Mr. Proctorasked the Minister of Health (1) if he will take the necessary steps to postpone the closing of the casualty department of the Eccles and Patricroft Hospital, pending further consideration of the matter;
(2) if he will ask the Manchester Hospital Board to consult further with the representatives of interested parties, including the Eccles Borough Council before proceeding with the proposed closure of the casualty department of the Eccles and Patricroft Hospital.
§ Mr. R. ThompsonThe continued need for these services is in the first instance a matter for the Manchester Regional Hospital Board, and I am bringing to its notice the points raised by the hon. Member. I understand the Board has already had some consultation with the Eccles Borough Council.