To ask the Secretary of State for Health what proposals there are for the purchaser of the North Devon health authority; whether there are any proposals to merge this authority with Torbay or Exeter; and if he will make a statement.

North Devon health authority is embracing the recent Government reforms. We have received no formal proposals to merge North Devon health authority with either Torbay or Exeter health authority. The preparation of any such proposals would initially be a matter for South Western regional health authority, annd the hon. Member may wish to contact Mr. C. Stuart the chairman of that authority for details.