§ 26. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what reconsideration he has given, in view of protests from public bodies and representatives and private citizens, and of practicalities, to his policy for the closing of small hospitals.
§ Mr. EnnalsHospital closures arise as part of the general process of service development and change, particularly in the light of new hospital building. Our policy is to provide a comprehensive range of specialised services in district general hospitals, but there will be a continuing need for smaller local or community hospitals to serve patients not requiring the specialist facilities of a district general hospital.