§ Mr. Mikardoasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what consideration he has given to the fact that 486W after September 1981 there will be only one ear, nose and throat surgeon in the City and East London health area, and after April 1981 none at all; and what he proposes to do about it.
§ Dr. VaughanOn 1 September 1981 the City and East London area health authority (teaching) is expected to have eight consultant ear, nose and throat surgeons in post. However, the hon. Member may also be referring to the Newham health district. The AHA(T) is considering proposals to provide inpatient ear, nose and throat services for this district at St. Bartholomew's and the London hospitals and does not plan therefore to make new permanent consultant appointments for this district. The AHA(T), however, does intend to maintain the existing service until decisions on the new proposals are taken and will, if necessary, make locum appointments.