To ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures she is taking to increase the number of neonatal intensive care cots available in NHS hospitals.

Health care provision, including neonatal intensive care facilities is a matter for decision by purchasing health authorities in the light of their assessment of local needs. The Clinical Standards Advisory Group, set up by the United Kingdom Health Departments, was asked to examine access to and availability of a number of specialised services, including neonatal intensive care, following the introduction of the national health service reforms. Its report and the Government's response will be published shortly. Health authorities will need to take account of these in planning future provision.