§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received in connection with Lothian health board's proposal to close the Elsie Inglis maternity hospital in Edinburgh.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythMy right hon. and learned Friend has received a total of around 330 letters from MPs, individuals and groups.
§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he proposes to make his decision on the proposal by Lothian health board to close the Elsie Inglis maternity hospital in Edinburgh; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythMy right hon. and learned Friend has today approved a restructuring of obstetric services in Lothian, which means the closure from 1 August 1988 of the Elsie Inglis memorial maternity hospital. He took particular account of the fact that there has been an oversupply and underuse of obstetric beds in Lothian for a number of years and, without change, this would be even worse from 1 August when a consultant-led obstetric722W service will be available for the first time at Borders general hospital. He also took account of the fact that the board's proposals have the support of its professional advisory committees and that the resources released will be fully available to permit the board to develop and improve services within its area.