§ 12. Andrew GeorgeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent assessment he has made of the provision of emergency acute facilities in remote rural areas. [59132]
§ Mr. HuttonIt is the responsibility of primary care trusts to commission accessible high quality services that can meet the needs of people living in rural areas.
Any substantial changes in the pattern of such services must be the subject of full public consultation, and in relation to any contested proposals, my right hon. Friend will make final decisions only after a full assessment of the case for change.