HC Deb 20 March 1947 vol 435 c581
34 and 35. Mr. Walkden

asked the Minister of Health (1), what representations the board of management of the Doncaster Royal Infirmary have ever made to him or his regional officers to seek powers or financial assistance to acquire the St. George's Private Nursing Home, Doncaster, either to be used by this institution or to retain this nursing home as a potential part of the national hospital service; what was his reply; and whether these representations were made prior to or since the announcement that the owner intended to sell the premises to the National Coal Board;

(2) at what price the St. George's Private Nursing Home was offered to the public health authorities of Doncaster or the West Riding County Council as an addition to their hospital services; whether the institution was inspected by any of the officials of the respective local authorities; and what decision or action was taken by either authority on the offer.

Mr. J. Edwards

I understand that the Coal Board entered into a contract to purchase the premises on 17th February. On nth March the hospital asked my right hon. Friend to support their proposal to keep the premises in hospital use. I have told them I am in communication with the Coal Board.

Mr. Walkden

Will my hon. Friend ask his right hon. Friend to urge the Coal Board, whoever owns the premises now, to let these premises to the board of management of the Doncaster Irfirmary or the local hospital, so that we can continue to use this particular institution for this very urgent need in this area?

Mr. Edwards

I can assure my hon. Friend that his view will be carefully considered.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that work on behalf of the Coal Board has started on part of these premises, while the other part still has patients in it?

Mr. Walkden

That does not matter.