asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will make a statement on the extent to which the Rathbone Hospital, Liverpool, will care for handicapped children and pre-convalescent patients in the future;(2) if he will make a statement on the continuing future of the Rathbone Hospital in Liverpool including continuing employment prospects.

I understand that the future of the Rathbone Hospital is discussed in a consultative document entitled "Short-term strategy of hospital closures relating to the opening of the Royal Liverpool Hospital and other rationalisation measures" which the Liverpool Area Health Authority (Teaching) is issuing today. I understand that the area health authority is sending copies to the hon. Member and to other interested hon. Members.