§ 34. Mr. Mitchisonasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the provision of a maternity unit at Corby was approved in principle in March, 1956; and whether he will now approve the acceptance of tenders and authorise the commencement of work on the unit.
§ Miss PittTenders were recently received for this scheme which show a very substantial increase in cost over the approved estimate. Possible modifications are therefore being discussed with the regional hospital board, and my right hon. and learned Friend is not yet able to approve the tenders.
§ Mr. MitchisonIs the hon. Lady aware that this discussion itself is now two or three weeks old and that the reason the estimates were higher is the very long delay between the original estimates and the subsequent ones? In view of the social and great local demand for this maternity unit, could she use her best endeavours to speed it up and let it be started soon?
§ Miss PittThe answer to the last part of the hon. and learned Member's question is, yes. The tenders which were received in December showed a very substantial increase in cost, more than 25 per cent. over the original estimate.