§ 18. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the nature of the correspondence he has received from the Cumnock Town Council on the question of the future of the hospital at Ballochmyle; and the nature of his reply.
§ Mr. GalbraithThe town council has pressed for the retention of general hospital services at Ballochmyle. My right hon. Friend has told it that the Western Regional Hospital Board's proposals for hospital services in Ayrshire, which he is now considering, include the continuation of some general hospital services at Ballochmyle to serve the people in the Cumnock area.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that there is a widespread fear in that area that in some new economy drive this hospital may be closed down, or that some of its services may be seriously curtailed? Can he give an assurance that that is not so?
§ Mr. GalbraithAs I live in the area myself, naturally I am as well aware as the hon. Gentleman who represents it what the people are feeling. The answer is that the matter is still under consideration. I cannot go further than that.