§ 19. Dr. Dickson Mabonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland to what extent he intends increasing the present hospital building programme in Scotland in the light of recent announcements by the Government.
§ Mr. MaclayAs I announced last November, I expect expenditure on hospital building to increase from £3.25 million in 1960–61 to £3.9 million in 1961–62.
§ Dr. MabonThe Secretary of State has not answered the point of the Question about the present hospital building programme. In consideration of previous replies which the right hon. Gentleman has given about this matter and in view of the special provisions within the Government's credit squeeze and other restrictions, does not the Secretary of State agree that this is the time to increase the public works programme in Scotland to offset the influence of Bank Rate and other Government economic decisions that will adversely affect Scotland's unemployment position?
§ Mr. MaclayI do not understand the hon. Member's supplementary question, because in my reply I gave the facts about the present building programme, which is increasing.