HC Deb 04 April 1995 vol 257 cc1044-5W
Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will make it her policy that the accident and emergency departments of(a) the Royal Free hospital, (b) University College hospital, (c) Whittingdon hospital, (d) the Royal London hospital, (e) Homerton hospital, (f) North Middlesex and (g) Chase Farm will remain open permanently. [18310]

Mr. Sackville

The provision of accident and emergency services is the responsibility of local health authorities, and is determined in the light of local needs, priorities and resources. The hon. Member may wish to contact New River health authority for details of any plans concerning North Middlesex and Chase Farm hospitals; Camden and Islington health authority about the Royal Free, Whittington and University College hospitals; and East London and The City health authority about Homerton and the Royal London hospitals.

Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the latest estimate of the operating capacity and operating level of each of London's accident and emergency units; and if she will make a statement. [18289]

Mr. Sackville

It is for local health authorities to determine the extent of their needs for accident and emergency services, and to ensure that these are met.

Mr. Chidgey

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what consideration her Department has given to the effect that the closure of London hospitals will have on the time that emergency ambulances will take to reach a suitable hospital. [18269]

Mr. Malone

When proposing major service changes, local heath authorites take into account the effect on ambulance journey times to ensure that arrangements will be adequate.