HC Deb 14 February 1966 vol 724 c899
48. Mr. Peel

asked the Minister of Health what were the total numbers waiting for beds at the two general hospitals in Leicester in December, 1964, and December, 1965, respectively.

Mr. K. Robinson

The numbers were 4,893 and 6,158.

Mr. Peel

What plans has the right hon. Gentleman for alleviating this rapidly deteriorating situation? Does he not agree in the circumstances that it is a very great mistake that in the Government's five-year plan a decreasing amount, proportionately, of the gross national product is being spent on hospitals?

Mr. Robinson

What is required in Leicester is more operating theatres rather than more beds. A scheme to provide two new theatres at the Leicester General Hospital is planned to start this April. Further developments have been proposed and are under consideration in my review of the Hospital Plan.