HC Deb 13 May 1969 vol 783 c1195
4. Mr. Roy Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Wales when he will authorise the next main phase of development of the Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport, Monmouthshire; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. White

Planning is proceeding on a further three phases of redevelopment, two of which it is hoped to start in the period up to 1971–72 and the third in the period following. The first of these phases consists of residential accommodation for medical and nursing staff; an x-ray department and multi-discipline training school will follow and clear the way for the third phase, a new ward block providing 270 acute beds and supporting facilities.

Mr. Hughes

But will my hon. Friend appreciate that there is great pressure on this hospital, and ask her right hon. Friend to review major capital investment schemes at hospitals in Monmouth-shire to see that they are more directly related to economic trends in the area, particularly the movement of population?

Mrs. White

My hon. Friend will be aware that considerable developments have already taken place at this hospital. We shall proceed as rapidly as possible with the further developments which I described.