§ Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services who has the responsibility for deciding proposed changes in the pattern of maternity care in the Newham Health District; and if he has received any requests or recommendations from the North-East Thames Regional Health Authority in this regard.
§ Mr. MoyleIt is for health authorities to provide maternity services within the resources available to them. Where community health councils disagree with health authorities' major proposals for change these may be referred to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services. No such referral in respect of Newham has been received from the North-East Thames Regional Health Authority.