§ 29. Mr. Francis Noel-Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Defence to what purpose the hospital at Burderop Park will be put following the withdrawal of the United States Air Force; and in, coming to his decision, what consideration he gave to the medical needs of Swindon.
§ Mr. MulleyWe have no further need for the hospital and I am at present discussing with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health the possibility of its being used by the National Health Service. As my hon. Friend is aware the property is held on lease and any transfer would be subject to negotiations with the owner of the land.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerMay I take it from the reply that it is now up to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health and the regional hospital board to decide whether or not they want these premises? Would my hon. Friend like to say a word of thanks to the United States authorities who I understand have made a generous offer of equipment to the British medical authorities should they need it?
§ Mr. MulleyI was not aware of the offer by the United States Government, but I am sure that all hon. and right hon. Members would like to express their appreciation of this donation. It is the case that the future of the hospital now rests with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health and, for our part, we will do all we can, if my right hon. Friend decides that he wants it for a Health Service hospital, to go through all the formalities and get legal permission.