asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether the accident and emergency department of the Rochdale Infirmary is now fully operational; and if she will make a statement.

I deeply regret that owing to the action of a consultant the department has recently been temporarily closed on several nights and over two weekends when there was inadequate coverage by medical staff. I am informed that, apart from such occasions, the accident and emergency department is fully operational, and the situation is being kept under close review by the area health authority.