§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he proposes to reserve the right to make the decision on the proposed transfer of regional accident and emergency services from the Cardiff royal infirmary to the University Hospital of Wales pursuant to section 57 of the June 1991 guidelines entitled "Substantial Changes in the Use of Health Buildings." [17748]
§ Mr. RedwoodI have not reserved the right to decide this matter. The next step is for the community health council to submit a constructive and realistic alternative proposal to the health authorities. The matter will be referred to me for decision only if the CHC and the health authorities are unable to reach agreement on the proposals.
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§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what guidance he has given to the South Glamorgan health authority and the Cardiff community health council concerning the time allowed for the health council to prepare alternative proposals for the future of regional accident and emergency departments and the financial and other resources required by the health council to prepare such proposals pursuant to paragraph 52 of the June 1991 "Guidelines on Substantial Changes in the Use of Health Buildings". [17747]
§ Mr. RedwoodThe recommended period for the provision of alternative proposals is eight weeks from the end of the consultation period arranged by the health authority. Health authorities are expected to provide community health councils with reasonable assistance to help councils develop constructive and realistic alternative proposals for the delivery of effective and efficient health services.