§ 41. Mr. McGovernasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if his attention has been drawn to the decision of the Western Hospital Board not to renew the five-year contract to pay for orthopaedic treatment for tuberculosis patients at St. Andrew's Home, Millport; and if he will give an assurance that this hospital, which has 130 patients and an efficient staff, will be retained in an effort to wipe out this disease.
§ Mr. J. StuartI am aware of the Board's decision. Only 27 patients are now left in this hospital, and I am assured that enough hospital beds are available in the Western Region to accommodate these 27 patients and all other patients 27 suffering from non-respiratory tuberculosis who need hospital treatment. I am advised also that it would not be practicable to convert St. Andrew's Home, Millport, into a hospital for the treatment of respiratory tuberculosis.
§ Mr. McGovernIn which hospital are these patients to be housed?
§ Mr. StuartThe Board are satisfied that there are sufficient beds in their own hospitals to treat all non-respiratory tuberculosis patients. Therefore there is no need to renew the five-year contract with St. Andrew's Home.