HC Deb 30 November 1987 vol 123 c468W
Mr. Nellist

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what information he has about the death of a baby refused admission to Birmingham Children's hospital; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Currie

I am aware of a statement made on 25 November by a consultant cardiologist at the Birmingham Children's hospital, Dr. E. Silave which included the followingThe only case of which I am aware concerns a baby who was born during the last week with a serious heart abnormality in a hospital in the West Midlands Regional Health Authority. The baby could not be admitted to Birmingham Children's hospital because there was no space available on the intensive care unit. That baby has died. It was apparently very seriously ill and it is conjecture as to whether admission to the hospital would have influenced the outcome. Out of respect for the bereaved parents no further details can be made available.