§ Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will intervene to oppose the proposal of the south east Thames regional health authority to close the radiotherapy facilities at St. Thomas's hospital.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI understand that the south east Thames regional health authority is still considering the future of radiotherapy services in the region. If any proposal is eventually made to close facilities it would be subject to the formal consultation procedure and in that event I would want to see the results of the consultation before coming to any conclusion.
§ Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what are the reasons for the proposed closure of the radiotherapy facilities at St. Thomas's hospital;
(2) whether the proposed closure of the radiotherapy facilities at St. Thomas's hospital would lead to financial savings; and what effect it would have on patient care.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeNo such proposal has been submitted to me.
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§ Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will seek to ensure that members of the south east Thames regional health authority personally visit the radiotherapy department at St. Thomas's hospital before deciding on its future.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeIt is entirely for the authority to determine when to visit particular hospitals. I understand, however, that arrangements have been made for members to visit the radiotherapy department at St. Thomas's hospital before the authority's March meeting.