HC Deb 22 May 1972 vol 837 cc973-4
5. Mr. Denzil Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he has now received the report of the Welsh Hospital Board regarding the modernisation and extension of Llanelli Hospital.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Not yet.

Mr. Davies

Is the Minister aware that there is increasing anger and frustration in my constituency at the continual prevarication of the Welsh Hospital Board, a firm promise having been given as long ago as 1964? Will the hon. Gentleman urge the board to treat the matter as one of extreme urgency, requiring extreme priority?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I am very much aware of the hon. Gentleman's deep concern about the matter. I remember that on 17th April he brought a deputation from Llanelli to see me. I understand that the board is working on the preparation of detailed plans and I do not expect it to make the submission for several months. There is considerable difficulty in redeveloping an existing hospital on a restricted site and at the same time maintaining the service.

Mr. George Thomas

While in no way seeking to make things more difficult for the Minister of State while he is acting as Horatio today, may I ask him whether he is aware that in my time in office I received deputations about Llanelli hospital, and that the community is entitled to a much speedier answer than he has indicated this afternoon?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I am very grateful for the remarks from the right hon. Member for Tuscany. I can only say that I share his concern about this matter. I have myself looked into it fairly carefully and I am satisfied that the board is doing all it can to produce an answer with the best possible speed.