HC Deb 25 July 1963 vol 681 cc1770-1
Q1. Mr. Steele

asked the Prime Minister if he will issue an instruction that in future the provision of premises for the National Health Executive Councils should be the responsibility of the Minister of Public Building and Works.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

I see no present reason to alter the existing arrangements.

Mr. Steele

Will the right hon. Gentleman look at this matter again? Is he aware that a new Crown building is planned for Dumbarton? Would it not be sensible for the National Health Executive Council, which also requires new premises, to be accommodated in the new Crown building, and so avoid the duplication of conference rooms and other common services, since the capital and running costs must all come from the same public purse?

The Prime Minister

I think that there are already in existence arrangements whereby the Minister of Public Building and Works uses his good offices to help the Executive Councils to get suitable accommodation, but I will bear in mind what the hon. Member has said and I will go into the matter further.