§ Mr. Leslie Huckfieldasked the Secretary of State for Social Services on how many occasions in each of the past four years emergency surgical cases have not been able to be admitted to Nuneaton hospitals because there were no beds available; and whether she will make a statement.
§ Dr. OwenIn November 1973 a 28-bed ward at George Eliot Hospital was closed for 12 days for redecoration. Advance arrangements were made for urgent cases to be admitted to Coventry or Leicester hospitals if necessary. The number of patients so admitted is not known, but most urgent cases continued to be admitted to the George Eliot Hospital. I am not aware of any other occasions, but if my hon. Friend will let me know of any particular case which has caused him concern I shall be pleased to have inquiries made.