§ 29. Mr. Chapmanasked the Minister of Health when the new Page Street wing for Westminster Hospital will now definitely be completed; what was the agreed completion date in the building contract; what are the reasons for the delay advanced by the contractors; and what services of the hospital are being hindered by this delay.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonThe answer to the four parts of the question are: by mid August, according to present estimates; 19th July, 1966; variations to the scheme; a number of diagnostic, treatment and teaching services must carry on in limited accommodation.
§ Mr. ChapmanIs my right hon. Friend aware that the hospital is satisfied that the variations from contract are very minor, and do not justify a delay of this length? Is he further aware that it is probably due to the lack of efficiency of this firm—Tersons—and will he black-list it from future hospital contracts until it improves its efficiency?
§ Mr. RobinsonIt is also my understanding that the number of variations to the scheme is not an excessive one for a scheme of this size. Where cases of undue delay in the completion of hospital 1052 contracts are brought to my attention I take note of these together with other relevant factors when advising on the letting of other hospital contracts.