§ Mr. Nigel GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what consideration is being given to the loss of bed spaces or the closure of wards or hospitals as a consequence of the deficit currently incurred by Lothian health board.
§ Mr. Michael Forsyth[holding answer 28 February 1990]: My right hon. and learned Friend made clear that there will be no crisis closures. We are awaiting Lothian health board's proposals for considered adjustments to achieve more efficient arrangements for service delivery. Any adjustments will be within the framework of the board's strategic plans and made in the normal way so that the interests of patients remain paramount.