Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what is the projected shortfall in the finances of Lothian health board for the current financial year; and if he will take any steps to supplement the board's finances in order to ensure the continuing provision of patient care;
(2) what are the terms of reference of the review that Mr. Don Cruickshank is to conduct into the financial crisis of Lothian health board; when he expects that review to be completed; and if he will publish Mr. Cruickshank's report.
§ Mr. Michael Forsyth[holding answer 26 January 1990]Lothian health board has indicated that its expenditure in 1989–90 will exceed its revenue allocation by some £9 million. However, the interests of patient care remain paramount and there is no question of crisis closures, or reductions in patient services as a result of the current financial difficulties.
An independent review initiated by the chief executive, NHS in Scotland has examined the board's financial management of its affairs.