§ 33. Mr. Haymanasked the Minister of Health the allocation of capital expenditure for the West Cornwall Hospital Management Committee for 1953-54; and how it compares with the allocation for 1952–53.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodCapital expenditure is a matter for the regional boards, and no specific allocation is made to management committees. I am, however, informed that in 1953–54 the regional board propose to spend £6,400 on capital works at hospitals in this group; in 1952–53 they spent about £28,000.
§ Mr. HaymanMight I ask the Minister whether he will ask the regional board to consider favourably any application it may receive from the West Cornwall Hospital Management Committee for the improvement of the sanitation facilities in the men's ward at Redruth.
§ Mr. MacleodThat is a detailed matter of which I have no knowledge. Of course the regional board will consider—I do not promise favourably—any representation made from the sources mentioned by the hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopDoes not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the answers to these Questions show that unless some increase is made in the capital allocation we shall be allowing our hospital projects to deteriorate seriously, and that we are being penny wise and pound foolish in this matter? Will he not press much more vigorously for an increased capital allocation from his right hon. Friend?
§ Mr. MacleodI do not agree at all. I think it is a remarkable thing, of which this Government can be proud, that in this present year we are giving more to the National Health Service Estimates than in any previous year.