Oral Answers to Questions

John Cryer Excerpts
Tuesday 18th January 2022

(2 years, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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John Cryer Portrait John Cryer (Leyton and Wanstead) (Lab)
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On the issue of capacity, the argument has always been floating around that bed numbers can be cut on the basis of medical and technological advances. That was always deeply suspect, but in the context of covid-19 and its aftermath, can the Minister assure the House that there will be no cuts in bed numbers in any future hospital reconfiguration?

Edward Argar Portrait Edward Argar
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Decisions on hospital reconfigurations and changes to local hospital systems are a matter for the local NHS, following full consultation and consideration of the needs of local communities. The hon. Gentleman is right to highlight the importance of bed capacity in the NHS. The NHS as a whole will continue to look at what bed capacity is needed to meet future need.