Written question asked by Sandra Gidley (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 12 October 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 October 2006. It was answered by Ivan Lewis (Labour) on Monday, 30 October 2006 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Pregnancy Care

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the basis was for the recent statement by the chief executive of the NHS that pregnant women are best served by large consultant-led services; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Any decisions about reconfiguration of services should be made at a local level. Our clear commitment is that by 2009, all women will have choice over where and how they have their baby, and this should include offering services in a range of settings, including hospitals, midwifery led units and at home. The choices offered to women should fall within the safety net of an emergency network that is readily available, should the need arise.

Secondary information