HC Deb 17 July 1973 vol 860 cc247-8
18. Mr. Hatton

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when work is expected to commence on the new hospital to replace the Manchester Royal Infirmary.

Mr. Alison

A new works department. costing £196,900, is already under construction and work is expected to start on other ancillary buildings within the next two years. Planning of the main hospital is well advanced, but it is as yet too soon to say precisely when building will start.

Mr. Hatton

Does the hon. Gentleman appreciate the inconvenience that the citizens of Manchester have to suffer from the continued delay in starting this new hospital, and that each month that passes by adds considerably to the already escalating costs of the building?

Mr. Alison

The hon. Gentleman knows that we are here thinking about a hospital project which will cost £36 million when it is completed. I am sure that he and his constituents can take heart from the fact that we are committed to it by these substantial early stages of which I have given him details today.

Miss Holt

When my hon. Friend is considering expenditure upon the Manchester Royal Infirmary will he also consider the urgent need for a new Royal Infirmary in Preston? The people of Preston will not be prepared to wait much longer for the new infirmary which they need so badly.

Mr. Alison

I note carefully my hon. Friend's important supplementary question—so important that my right hon. Friend is presently to receive a deputation precisely on this issue.