LEICESTER HOSPITALS WARD CLOSURES

That this House notes with concern that nine wards are due to close at Leicester hospitals; believes that two wards will merge at the beginning of April 2010 at Leicester General Hospital, with the following wards closing shortly after; is further concerned that the capacity and ability to deal with patients may be affected negatively by the removal of approximately 250 beds; recognises that much of the Leicester East and wider Leicester community utilise Leicester General Hospital's wards; and calls on the Secretary of State for Health to ensure that the importance of high standards of hospital care is taken into account when deciding how best to adapt to the needs of patients.