HC Deb 07 November 1972 vol 845 cc109-10W
36. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what change there has been in his policy regarding the size of population to be served by a district general hospital; what is the advice issued by his Department concerning the size of hospital, specialities to be included, and the size of the catchment area; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alison

District general hospitals are being planned to serve populations up to about a quarter of a million people, covering all the main specialties apart from a few concentrated in regional units. My right hon. Friend will be considering further advice in the light of a report by a Central Health Services Council Committee and of operational research and other studies in progress.