§ Mr. Simon Mahonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he is now able to announce the closing date of the casualty and physiotherapy departments at Bootle Hospital; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he is now in a position to make a statement on the future of Bootle General Hospital, and Bootle Hospital Maternity Annexe.
§ Mr. AlisonThe accident and outpatient services at Bootle Hospital will be transferred to Walton Hospital on 31st March, 1971. The main physiotherapy department at Bootle Hospital will continue.
Liverpool Regional Hospital Board are considering the hospital services in North Merseyside as a whole, including Bootle, and will undertake local consultation before putting to my right hon. Friend any formal proposals for changes.
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§ Mr. Simon Mahonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he is aware of the concern shown by workers on the Mersey waterfront at the proposed closing of the casualty department at Bootle Hospital; what alternative provision will be made to replace and improve on the present services; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he is aware that the opening of the new docks at Seaforth and the additional work load brought into Bootle by the proposed closing of the Mersey South End Docks will necessitate an improvement in first aid services and casualty services in that location; and if he will authorise the necessary improvement.
§ Mr. AlisonI am aware that the proposed closure of the casualty department at Bootle Hospital has caused some concern. However, I am satisfied that an improved service can be provided at Walton Hospital, less than two miles away, where there is a modern and well-equipped accident and emergency department. I understood that first aid facilities are also provided by the National Dock Labour Board within the dock area and that further provision is under consideration.