§ Mr. HoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) when he expects to announce his decision on the Lanarkshire health board's proposals to eliminate acute medical services in Clydesdale constituency; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what is the projected figure for closure of acute medical services for each year from 1991 to 1994 in each health board area in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythHealth boards are responsible for drawing up strategic plans for all services, including acute services. These plans may contain proposals for closures as well as for new capital investment. As strategy reviews are undertaken on a continuing basis by individual boards, it is not possible to give a full indication of new acute services developments and any consequent closures for the years 1991–1994. Lanarkshire health board is currently preparing an approval in principle submission for its acute services proposals. When this is received, I shall consider all aspects of the proposals, including the representations made by the hon. Member.