asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied that adequate emergency cover exists at alternative hospitals following the closure of the casualty department at St. Margaret's hospital, Epping.

The Essex area health authority has decided to close temporarily the accident and emergency department at St. Margaret's hospital because of serious overspending in the Harlow health district. I understand that the authority is satisfied that an adequate accident and emergency service is provided at the Princess Alexandra hospital, Harlow.