§ 26. Mr. Hannanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what are his plans for establishing more high-power units for the treatment of cancer; and how far these plans also include the use of radioactive cobalt and caesium.
§ Mr. MaclayThe intention is that one of the two new radiotherapy departments proposed in Glasgow should be equipped with a linear accelerator and the other with a major treatment unit which may be a cobalt unit. The third department, proposed in Aberdeen, is likely to be equipped with a cobalt unit. I am advised that the use of caesium for this purpose is still at the experimental stage.
§ Mr. HannanIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the opinion which has been expressed in many quarters in Scotland that more attention should be paid to the need for providing these facilities urgently? Will he use his influence to see that the addition to the Western Infirmary is proceeded with as soon as possible?
§ Mr. MaclayCertainly, Sir. As the hon. Member knows, I have been working on this matter very closely for some time past.