§ Mr. WoodwardTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many proposals for the closure of community hospitals have been referred to him since 1 May 1997; how many he has refused; and in which locations. [34444]
§ Mr. Milburn[holding answer 13 March 1998]: Four community hospitals in Cornwall have been referred to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State. The hospitals concerned are located in Saltash, Fowey, St. Ives and Poltair. No decision has yet been taken on the future of these hospitals.
§ Mr. NichollsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health when he will make a decision on plans put forward by the Cornwall Health Authority to close community hospitals in Cornwall; what powers he has to vary or reject proposals put forward by health authorities to close community hospitals; and if he will make a statement. [36516]
431W
§ Mr. Milburn[holding answer 27 March 1998]: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will be taking a decision shortly on the proposals for service changes put forward by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Health Authority.