§ Mr. WilshireTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) if he will make it his policy to oppose further transfers of services from Ashford (Middlesex) hospital to St. Peter's hospital, Chertsey; [53219]
(2) if he will make a statement on the future of the intensive care unit at Ashford (Middlesex) hospital. [53215]
§ Mr. MilburnAshford and St. Peter's Hospitals National Health Service Trust was established on 1 April 1998 from the merger of two neighbouring acute NHS trusts. The trust is currently reviewing its services and the configuration of these between the two sites at Ashford and St. Peter's. We expect the trust and its health authorities to consider the interests of patients in any changes to service delivery. There will be public consultation on any significant service changes.
The trust is reviewing the capabilities of both hospital sites in view of the need to provide hospital services, including intensive care, that are fit for the 21st century. The trust must be able to meet accreditation standards for training doctors, and must be able to deliver high quality treatment and care. In considering its reconfiguration plans, the trust will be expected to maintain a broad range of services on site for the local population.