HC Deb 05 April 1977 vol 929 cc483-4W
38. Mr. Tim Renton

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions he has had with the regional health authority regarding the pressures on the resources of Cuckfield Hospital.

Mr. Moyle

Officers in my Department maintain regular contact with the South-West Thames Regional Health Authority. Provision of facilities and services in the Cuckfield and Crawley health district is, however, a matter for the West Sussex Area Health Authority in the first instance, and I am assured by it that consideration will continue to be given to such upgrading of the Cuckfield Hospital as is appropriate in the light of the timing of other capital developments. As the hon. Member will know, my Department is considering the health authorities' plan for a new district general hospital to replace services now provided from Cuckfield, when resources become available for this. The hon. Member is already aware of my views on the manpower situation.