Written question asked by John Gorst (Independent Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 19 November 1996. It was answered by Lord Horam (Conservative) on Tuesday, 19 November 1996 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: How often approval has been sought from his Department for the closure of accident and emergency departments in the past 12 months; and if he will indicate in each case if the closure was subject to prior consultation.

Answer: Sir John Gorst: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how often approval has been sought from his Department for the closure of accident and emergency departments in the past 12 months; and if he will indicate in each case if the closure was subject to prior consultation. [3892] Mr. Horam: Consultation is required by law on any substantial change in services proposed by a health authority. If the local community health council contests the proposals they are automatically referred to my right hon. Friend for Health for a decision. One proposal substantitally to change an accident and emergency service has been referred to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State in the Secretary of State in the last 12 months.

Secondary information