HC Deb 30 November 1982 vol 33 cc119-20W
15. Mr. John Spellar

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many children with terminal illnesses were temporary patients at Tadworth hospital for sick children in 1981.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

During 1981 108 children with terminal illness were admitted to Tadworth hospital. The board of governors now proposes that all services provided at Tadworth Court should be transferred to equivalent facilities which are also at present under utilised at Queen Mary's hospital, Carshalton. I am considering this proposal and am meeting later today representatives of interested charities and a deputation led by my hon. Friend the Member for Reigate (Mr. Gardiner). I also intend to visit both hospitals. Meanwhile I have agreed today to make a further £200,000 available to enable the board to maintain services at Great Ormond Street hospital at the present level until the end of January 1983 to allow time for a decision to be taken on Tadworth Court.

42. Mr. Jim Callaghan

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received concerning the proposed closure of Tadworth hospital for sick children.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

I have received representations from a number of hon. Members, several petitions and some 1,900 letters from the general public.

I am meeting today representatives of charities and also seeing a deputation led by my hon. Friend the Member for Reigate (Mr. Gardiner).