§ Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he or the Minister of State will meet a small deputation of the action committee to discuss the proposed closure of Mill Road Maternity Hospital and receive a petition containing over 10,000 names.
§ Mr. MoyleThe provision of hospital services within Liverpool is a matter for the Area Health Authority (Teaching). In accordance with Departmental Circular HSC(IS)207, the Area Health Authority312W to be used by companies wishing to contract-out under the 1975 Pensions Act and states that supplies may be obtained from the board.
§ Mrs. Chalkerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proposals he has for the machinery to deal with contracting out from the State second pension scheme, when applications commence.
§ Mr. OrmeElections to contract-out will be dealt with by the Occupational Pensions Board. I am advised by the board that it is ready to process elections and is very willing to give informal advice to companies or their pensions advisers at any time.