Shortly before the summer recess I presented a petition with 20,000 names concerning the Conquest hospital in Hastings, since when 7,000 people have marched the streets of Hastings and 20,000 more have signed a further petition, including many from the constituency of the hon. Member for Bexhill and Battle (Gregory Barker), whom I am pleased to see in the Chamber.

The petition of John Baker, the chairman of the Friends of the Conquest, and others

Declares that the residents of Hastings and Rother, in the sixtieth year of the NHS, appreciate the services delivered at the local Conquest Hospital.

The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urge the Government to direct Health Authorities to ensure that any reorganisations will not involve the downgrading of existing services at the Conquest Hospital or in any way compromise the Accident and Emergency Service now provided.

And the Petitioners remain, etc.

To lie upon the Table.