HC Deb 03 May 1988 vol 132 c421W
Mr. Blunkett

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services if, pursuant to his answer of 29 March,Official Report, column 751, he will make it his policy not to refer hon. Members to chairmen of district health authorities when answering questions on the closure of accident and emergency units.

Mrs. Currie

The provision of health services in England is the responsibility of 190 district health authorities and 90 family practitioner committees which are best placed to determine local priorities and needs. In questions regarding detail of individual hospital services, referral to the district health authority chairman is usually the most appropriate and efficient way to answer the questions of hon. Members.