§ 5. Mr. Denzil Daviesasked 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-WattNot yet.
§ Mr. DaviesIs 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-WattI 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 ThomasWhile 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-WattI 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 974 fairly carefully and I am satisfied that the board is doing all it can to produce an answer with the best possible speed.