§ 4. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Health what is the bed complement planned for the Cardiff new teaching 4 hospital; and what effect this will have on each of the hospitals in the Cardiff district.
§ 22. Dame Irene Wardasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the shortage of beds in the Newcastle region; and what action he intends to take to meet the recommendations made by the regional hospital board.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. Enoch Powell)I would ask the hon. Members to await the statement on hospital development foreshadowed in the Gracious Speech.
§ Mr. ThomasIs the Minister aware that we have been waiting for years and years for this new training hospital in Cardiff and that there is every indication that, although it will serve a much wider area than the City of Cardiff itself, our hospitals are to have their bed complement reduced? Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that there is considerable anxiety about this matter before he takes a final decision?
§ Mr. PowellI know that this is a very important undertaking for the whole of Wales, but I must ask hon. Members to look at the details in the context of the general plan.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonCan the Minister say when he expects to lay his White Paper on the hospital plan?
§ Mr. PowellAs soon as I can, consistent with doing the job.