§ Mr. PatnickTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many beds currently exist within the Royal Hallamshire hospital, Sheffield; how many have been withdrawn from service over the past five years as a result of a lack of funds; and what will be the estimated effect on the utilisation of beds were the hospital to be designated a National Health Service hospital trust.
§ Mr. FreemanThe total number of beds that currently exist within the Royal Hallamshire hospital, Sheffield is 728.
As regards the number of beds in use in the hospital, it is for local health authorities to determine the best use of resources to meet local needs.
It is too early to assess the effect of the Government's plans for National Health Service hospital trusts.