§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the restructuring of ambulance services in Coventry; and what estimate he has made of the likely savings to be made from the restructuring. [124508]
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§ Dr. LadymanCoventry Primary Care Trust (PCT) is responsible for commissioning services for the local health community. I understand that West Midlands Ambulance Service National Health Service Trust currently provides emergency ambulance cover to Coventry and the surrounding area.
I understand that, from 1 April 2004, Coventry PCT will be commissioning emergency ambulance services for the local health community from Warwickshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust. This decision is supported by the local health community and is part of a long-term strategy to deliver an emergency care network across Coventry and Warwickshire, with one ambulance service provider.
I am advised that this decision is a strategic one and not about reducing costs. The investment in ambulance services by Coventry PCT will remain broadly the same.