§ 11. Sir A. Meyerasked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received about the provision of facilities for prayer and worship at the district general hospital at Bodelwyddan; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Barry JonesMy right hon. and learned Friend has received four letters. The area health authority intends to make provision for Sunday services and a room for the use of the clergy. Plans for a further phase in the development of the hospital provide for a separate chapel.
§ Sir A. MeyerIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there is real concern on the part of religious leaders throughout North Wales at the totally inadequate facilities provided for prayer and worship in this hospital which is now being built? Is he further aware that such facilities have even more than spiritual value, in that they have a real therapeutic value for both patients and their relatives? Will he ask his right hon. and learned Friend, who has great prestige and reputation in Church and Chapel circles, to use not only the influence of his office but his personal influence to see whether more satisfactory arrangements cannot be arrived at in time for the opening of phase 1 of the new hospital?
§ Mr. JonesI understand the concern to which the hon. Gentleman refers. We have corresponded on this matter. I can tell the hon. Gentleman that the area health authority will be ready to have discussions with the local clergymen to establish where there is suitable room available in the hospital for weekend worship. The majority of medium-sized 1102 hospitals and smaller hospitals in Wales do not have a chapel, but the ministry of the Church still goes on.