§ 19. Mr. Danceasked the Minister of Health what planning and what consultations have begun to ensure that the new town of Redditch will have adequate hospital facilities; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BraineThe regional hospital board has already been in touch with the newly appointed chairman of the new town corporation and it has been agreed that the provision of hospital services for this area will be discussed as soon as the corporation is ready to do so.
§ Mr. DanceCan my right hon. Friend give me any information on when these discussions are likely to take place? Can he also give a positive assurance that the movement of population within my constituency will be taken into account when hospital planning for the future is thought about?
§ Mr. BraineYes, Sir. I understand that discussions will be arranged as soon as the key staff of the new corporation have been appointed. The chairman was officially appointed only on 1st June. I assure my hon. Friend that the regional hospital board has taken note of the information so far available about the projected movement of population into Redditch and will keep the hospital development plans for this and the surrounding areas constantly under review.
§ Mr. ShinwellIf this new town can get a new hospital, why cannot I?
§ Mr. BraineI am sorely tempted to do so.