HC Deb 02 December 1968 vol 774 cc1029-30
5. Mr. William Price

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what recent discussions he has had with the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board over the future of medical services in Rugby.

Mr. Crossman

The board has assured me that it its intention to maintain St. Cross Hospital with at least its present size for the foreseeable future. The board is at present reviewing its future capital programme, including proposals for expanding this hospital.

Mr. Price

May I thank the Depart-men: for its continuing interest in our problems, but would the Minister agree that many of the fears of my constitu- ents would not have arisen if the Board had told them what it was doing? Can he take any steps at all to improve its public relations?

Mr. Crossman

I will certainly bear in mind what my hon. Friend says and discuss the problem with the Board.