§ 21. Mr. Roy Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Wales what was the original estimated cost of the new teaching hospital at the Heath, Cardiff; and how this figure compares with the present estimated final cost.
§ Mr. Gibson-WattThe original estimate, made in 1962, was £12,957,000. The latest estimate is £18,207,000.
§ Mr. HughesDoes the Minister appreciate that this great prestige project is having a highly detrimental effect 1237 on other hospital development in Wales? Does the hon. Gentleman appreciate that the Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport serves a large industrial population and is simply bursting at the seams at the present time? Will the Minister please give greater priority to it?
§ Mr. Gibson-WattI do not accept what the hon. Gentleman has said about the Heath Hospital. I assure the hon. Gentleman, however, that the increase in the estimated cost of the University Hospital of Wales has in no way delayed redevelopment of the Royal Gwent Hospital.