HC Deb 25 March 1957 vol 567 cc792-3
30. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction in Coventry concerning the progress of the rebuilding programme at Stoney Stanton Road Hospital; and, in view of the fact that item 1 was approved on 27th May, 1955, but that the building work is now only 25 per cent. complete; that working drawings and bills of quantities for item 3 were in preparation in January, 1956, but that tenders for the work were approved only on 5th March, 1957; that items 4 and 5 cannot be undertaken or considered until items 1 and 3 are completed, if he will make representations to the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board on the matter.

Mr. Vosper

My officers are in constant touch with the board about this scheme, which all concerned wish to see completed as soon as possible.

Miss Burton

Is the Minister aware that, in addition to this shocking record as listed in the Question, the sketch plans for item 7 were received by his Department as long ago as January, 1956, and the siting is still under discussion with the regional board? Is he aware that the former Minister of Health thought so strongly of Coventry's claims that he gave us the money for all this rebuilding as long ago as March, 1954? Does not the Minister think that the change of personnel in the regional board may at least lead to something being done?

Mr. Vosper

I should not like to comment on the last part of that supplementary question. This is a difficult matter. If the hon. Lady would care to come and discuss it with my advisers and myself, I should be pleased to do so.