HC Deb 12 December 1960 vol 632 cc24-5
29. Mr. M. Stewart

asked the Minister of Health what plans he has for the future of Western Hospital, Seagrave Road, S.W.6.

Mr. Powell

There are no proposals at present before me.

Mr. Stewart

Does that mean that it is intended, as originally proposed, to go on with the provision of beds for elderly people at this hospital? Also, is it the fact that, in the middle of October, the regional hospital board was told to suspend work on the plans for Western Hospital and the order was countermanded shortly afterwards?

Mr. Powell

The answer to the first part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question is that that is the present intention. However, it is necessary that all the post-graduate provision for London should be considered as a whole, and work on that is in progress.

Mr. K. Robinson

In view of the somewhat persistent rumours which have been flying around, will the right hon. Gentleman at least give an assurance that when this site is developed it will be developed by his Department, through the hospital authorities, and not on his behalf by a private developer?

Mr. Powell

I am not aware of any arrangements under which I could act in accordance with the second part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question.