HC Deb 03 February 1988 vol 126 c660W
Mrs. Rosie Barnes

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what procedures are followed when a decision is made to transfer excess accident and emergency services from one district health authority to a neighbouring one.

Mrs. Currie

The Community Health Councils Regulations 1985 (SI 1985 No. 304) require a district health authority to consult a community health council on proposals to make any substantial variation in the provision of the health service in the council's district. Provision is made for urgent temporary closures to be implemented without consultation. If the hon. Member has a particular instance in mind, perhaps she would like to write to the chairman of the health authority concerned.