HC Deb 21 January 1969 vol 776 cc220-1
2. Mr. Turton

asked the Minister for Overseas Development whether he has now approved the plans for the improvement of the Glendon Hospital, Montserrat.

Mr. Oram

Following discussions with the Chief Minister and Administrator of Montserrat in London last month, it was agreed that sufficient development aid should be available to permit the construction of a new hospital in a single phase rather than in a number of phases as hitherto planned. My Ministry is accordingly engaging hospital consultants under technical assistance arrangements to advise the Montserrat Government and their architects on the design of a hospital on this basis.

Mr. Turton

Is the Minister aware that the vacillation and change of policy of his Department has created great disappointment in Montserrat, that this two-phase hospital was first approved in January, 1965, that it was included in the tripartite economic survey of Eastern Caribbean in 1966, that it was approved again in October, 1967, and that then suddenly it was turned down as a two-phase project in October, 1968? This vacillation does great harm to our image in the Caribbean?

Mr. Oram

I do not accept the word "vacillation". There have been differences of opinion as to the best way of proceeding in connection with this hospital. I am sure that the right hon. Gentleman will agree that the prime consideration now is that a new hospital which is architecturally and medically suited to the needs of Montserrat will be provided.

Mr. Marten

As my right hon. Friend the Member for Thirsk and Malton (Mr. Turton) said, this has been dragging on for a long time. When will it be started?

Mr. Oram

It is hoped that designs will have been completed, a contract awarded and work started by the end of this year or early 1970 at the latest.