§ Mr. DouglasTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the number of beds in national health service hospitals which are being prepared in anticipation of casualties which could arise from hostilities in the Gulf; and what proposals he has to fund such eventualities.
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§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyIn consultation with the relevant Government Departments, health authorities have reviewed their existing contingency plans for national health service treatment of military casualties in the event of war. Should it become necessary, beds would be made available through restrictions on non-urgent admissions. Contingency planning will be taken forward as necessary. The funding position can be reviewed if the need arises.