§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if the mechanism for the allocation within London of the £378 million capital budget for London's National Health Service will(a) take into account the levels of activity of accident and emergency departments, (b) take into account the effect on such accident and emergency departments of the closure over the last decade of nearby ones and (c) provide a compensation element for the relatively small increases in the annual settlements affecting some London health authorities; and if he will make a statement. [62514]
§ Mr. MilburnThe importance of improving the standard of facilities and equipment in accident and emergency departments has been recognised by the Government. As a result, £30 million from next year's Modernisation Fund for Capital has been earmarked for investment in accident and emergency departments of which £4.367 million has been allocated to London. These resources will be used to provide faster, better services for patients and a safer working environment for staff. Funds will be allocated across a range of schemes. Many factors will be taken into consideration in deciding which should have the greatest need for investment including, where applicable, the level of activity of accident and emergency departments.
In response to Sir Leslie Turnberg's review, we are determined to ensure that all Londoners have accessible top quality services with accident and emergency and ambulance services capable of meeting forseeable needs.