HC Deb 03 December 1973 vol 865 cc883-4
1. Mr. Michael Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations have been made to him by residents of the Heath area concerning the present access to the Heath Hospital.

The Secretary of State for Wales (Mr. Peter Thomas)

I have received representations from two residents of Rhydhelig Avenue, Heath, one inviting me to receive a petition.

Mr. Roberts

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware of the growing resentment and hostility among the people living in the Heath area at the failure of the Welsh Office to provide adequate access to the Heath Hospital? Will he give an assurance that he will undertake negotiations with the city authority to solve this problem?

Mr. Peter Thomas

My officials are in constant touch with the city authority on this matter, which I know is of considerable concern to residents in the area. I repeat that it is a matter for Cardiff City Council, as the responsible highway and planning authority, to decide what measures it should take to deal with the situation.

Mr. George Thomas

Does not the Secretary of State agree that although Cardiff City Council has the responsibility for planning, he is responsible for the National Health Service and he should accept a joint responsibility with Cardiff City Council to ensure that this awful problem is soon resolved?

Mr. Peter Thomas

I am anxious to do whatever I can, but I cannot get away from the fact that the appropriate authority in this matter is the city council, and not myself.

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