HC Deb 07 December 1959 vol 615 cc30-1
61. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Health how many new hospitals are now being built; and how many plans for building new hospitals will be put into operation in 1960.

Mr. Walker-Smith

I would refer the hon. Member to my Answer to the hon. Member for Sedgefield (Mr. Slater) on 4th November.

Mr. Sorensen

Has the right hon. and learned Gentleman nothing to add to that, in view of the fact that there has been a continuing demand for more hospitals, and that the reply given, I understand. was not entirely satisfactory?

Mr. Walker-Smith

I thought the list I gave was very satisfactory; when it showed that we have six hospitals partly complete and in use, and that we have nine others where work is in progress, and four planned to start during the next financial year. So we are making very good progress with this problem.

Dr. Summerskill

Can the right hon. and learned Gentleman say whether the total cost will be more or less than that recommended in the Guillebaud Report?

Mr. Walker-Smith

It is for the moment less than that recommended in the Guillebaud Report but vastly greater than that achieved by the right hon. Gentleman and the right hon. Lady opposite.