HC Deb 07 December 1978 vol 959 c768W
Mrs. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what arrangements are being made to ensure the full working of the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson hospital pending the report of the working party set up by him.

Mr. Ennals

In general, I expect the present level of services to be maintained until the discussions on future accommodation are completed.

As with other hospitals, however, provision of services must depend on the availability of sufficient nursing and other staff to ensure a safe standard of care and it will be necessary to close some beds over the Christmas period. Some of these beds may have to remain closed thereafter if nurses and other staff cannot be recruited.