HC Deb 24 October 1983 vol 47 cc52-3W
Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will meet a deputation of hon. Members from Liverpool to discuss proposed cuts in expenditure by the Liverpool area health authority.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

Yes.

Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the current level of funding of the National Health Service in Liverpool; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

Resource allocation to district health authorities is the responsibility of regional health authorities. Liverpool health authority is currently receiving slightly more than its fair share of the resources available to the Mersey RHA. In view of the projected decline in the city's population and changes in the authority's catchment area for patients, Liverpool would be considerably overfunded in comparison with other health districts by the end of this decade if no action were taken. The RHA has decided that Liverpool's revenue budget should be reduced by six per cent. by 1988–89, against a background of a projected nine per cent. decline in population. At the same time, Liverpool should receive nearly £30 million capital investment over approximately the same period to assist in rationalising services and providing more community-orientated facilities.

Mr. Parry

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received opposing proposed cuts in the budget of the Liverpool area health authority.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

We have received two letters from the hon. Member for Liverpool, Riverside (Mr. Parry) and one other letter on this matter.