§ Mr. Cartwrightasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action can be taken by community health councils faced with proposals by area health authorities temporarily to close hospital facilities, the long-term future of which is the subject of public consultation.
§ Mr. MoyleIt is a function of community health councils to represent to area health authorities the interests and views of people of the district on National Health Service matters including temporary closures. The procedure, where permanent closure of health buildings is proposed, is the same whether or not a unit has had to be closed temporarily as346W an emergency measure, and involves full consultation with community health councils, elected local authorities and other local interests.