HC Deb 12 December 1960 vol 632 c26
32. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Health what is the amount of under-spending he anticipates in the capital programme of the hospital authorities this financial year.

Mr. Powell

Returns earlier in the year showed some under-spending, but hospital boards were authorised to undertake additional works. I cannot anticipate the final outturn.

Mr. Boyden

Is it not rather deplorable that when the Government set out at last to improve the hospital service and increase the amount of hospital building they should, almost before it starts, be caught by under-spending?

Mr. Powell

I am anxious to spend, if possible, every penny of my capital estimate, and I have, for example, in the Newcastle region authorised a further £500,000 of capital work.