§ Mr. St. John-Stevasasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) why a reduction in patient services in Chelmsford of £33,000 for 1979–80 and £92,000 for 1980–81 has been ordered; what consideration has been given to the effect of such a reduction on the already overloaded community and general practitioner services; what effect is expected on those services; and whether he will re-examine the quality of services offered 47W in Chelmsford with a view to restoring the cuts;
(2) why, in view of the already overloaded health services in Chelmsford, and bearing in mind that there continues to be an expansion in population in that area with further housing estates under construction, he has instructed that there should be a cumulative reduction in revenue spending on services in the area.
§ Mr. MoyleThe Essex Area Health Authority operational plan for 1978–79–1980–81, which contains the information quoted by the hon. Member, has not yet been approved by the North East Thames Regional Health Authority, nor have allocations for 1978–79—1980–81 yet been made.