§ Mr. Scott-Hopkinsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what instructions he has given to regional health authorities in respect of the provision of standby facilities for hospitals, with practical reference to the Trent regional board.
§ Mr. MoyleIt is the responsibility of health authorities to make plans and arrangements locally to meet emergencies. Because the nature and impact of emergencies are so variable, my Department has not in general issued standing instructions. However, guidance has been issued on occasions when advice on the need for special measures on the implications of an emergency was judged necessary. In addition, my officers are always ready to give health authorities such advice and assistance as they can.