§ 37. Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Health if he will increase the amount allocated to the Sheffield Regional Hospital Board in view of the need for meeting the demands of the Barnsley Hospital Management Committee who desire to effect immediate improvements.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodNo, Sir. I am aware of the need here and so, I am sure, is the Board.
§ Mr. MasonIs the Minister aware of the difficult conditions confronting the Barnsley Hospital Management Committee? I have already sent him details of these conditions, and I have had consultations with his Parliamentary Secretary, who agrees with my statement that they are below standard. The Sheffield Regional Hospital Board has already contacted the Finance Committee of the 1374 Barnsley Hospital Management Committee about the percentage, which is a hopeful sign. The Barnsley Hospital Management Committee is dependent upon an extra allocation from the Minister as well as an extra allocation from the Sheffield Regional Hospital Board.
§ Mr. MacleodIf I may coin a phrase—questions of priority are for the regional hospital boards.