HC Deb 01 May 1961 vol 639 cc889-90
24. Mr. Lindsay

asked the Minister of Health if he will give the expenditure on repairs and improvements to Solihull Hospital during the three five-year periods 1946–51, 1951–56 and 1956–61.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Edith Pitt)

My right hon. Friend has no record before 5th July, 1948; expenditure was £21,345 from that date to March, 1951; £59,823 in 1951–56 and £109,900 in 1956–61.

Mr. Lindsay

Is the Minister not aware that this is pitifully little expenditure in view of the importance of this hospital?

Miss Pitt

It is nearly £200,000 over the period. My hon. Friend will no doubt be glad to learn that the Regional Hospital Board is preparing long-term plans which include provision for a maternity unit to cost £370,000 and, later on, for a new hospital estimated to cost £800,000. I know this hospital and that it is old and needs further improvement.