§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received against the proposed closure of the duchess ward at Liverpool women's hospital; what action he intends to take; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI refer the hon. Member to my replies to the hon. Member for Liverpool, Riverside (Mr. Parry) on 8 November 1983, at column80, and to the hon. Member for Liverpool, Mossley Hill (Mr. Alton) on 16 November 1983 at column 485, and 27 March 1984 at columns 123–24.
The health authority is consulting on permanent closure of the ward. The consultative arrangements provide that if the Community Health Council objects to the closure, but the district health authority and the regional health authority wish to proceed, the issue is referred to Ministers for a decision.