HC Deb 20 February 1963 vol 672 c416
2. Mr. Dempsey

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if, in view of the high unemployment rate in the area, he will bring forward the starting date of the new general hospital to be built in Coat-bridge and Airdrie.

The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. R. Brooman-White)

Planning of this hospital is only at the preliminary stage and would require at least three years to complete. There is, therefore, no question of an early start.

Mr. Dempsey

Is the Minister aware that now that he has a site in mind it should be possible to telescope the planning and considerably reduce the waiting period? Does not he realise that in this area nearly 10 per cent. of the insurable population is unemployed? Is he aware that competent medical consultants have stated that the hospital facilities in Lanarkshire, excluding the maternity services, are 50 years out of date? Are not these excellent reasons for getting on with this project?

Mr. Brooman-White

I am advised that we have not even got the working drawings yet It should take about that time to get going The question of the priority of hospitals in the general building programme of the area is a matter for the regional hospital board, as the hon. Member appreciates.