§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps are taken prior to the closure of a hospital; whether a public meeting has to be held prior to the closure to ascertain the views of the people in the area; whether the health authority would issue its views in relation to the closure and possible replacement to the Press prior to a public meeting being held; and what are the funds granted and to whom, when a hospital closes.
§ Mr. MoyleMost enclosures and changes of use of hospital buildings will have been foreshadowed in the planning of future service developments on which wide consultations are held. When a permanent closure or major change of use is to proceed, the health authority is required to consult further with community health councils, local health authorities, staff and professional organisations and other interested parties. A consultation document giving full information is provided by the area health authority for these bodies and others interested and a Press statement is issued. Public meetings are not necessarily held but may be useful in some circumstances. When hospitals are closed health authorities reallocate any funds which may cease to be needed for services hitherto provided there.