§ 7. Sir A. V. Harveyasked the Minister of Health when the first and second phases of the new hospital at Macclesfield will be started; and what is the date of completion.
§ Mr. LoughlinThe Hospital Building Programme (Cmnd. 3000) includes these phases of the new hospital at Macclesfield in the first list of schemes at present expected to start after 1969–70. Construction is likely to take two to three years for the first phase and three to four years for the second.
§ Sir A. V. HarveyIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the postponement of at least three years has caused extreme dismay in Macclesfield and district? In looking at this matter, will he reconsider the whole problem, taking into account the fact that the Congleton War Memorial Hospital, which is of quite modern design, should be put on a permanent basis with the delayed new hospital at Macclesfield?
§ Mr. LoughlinThe regional hospital board is aware of the situation in Macclesfield and will take all these matters into account in defining its plans. These plans are fluid and flexible. If the occasion arose, or needs occurred which were greater than in other parts of the region, the plans could be changed.
§ Sir A. V. HarveyIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the Parliamentary Secretary's reply, I beg to give notice that I will endeavour to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.