§ 3. Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement about proposals for the use of the former Killearn Hospital.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Frank McElhone)Killearn Hospital is no longer required for Health Service purposes. Negotiations are proceeding with the Central Regional Council, which wishes to purchase the site, and at a meeting on 25th November agreement was reached on the form of a revised offer which has now to be considered by the council.
§ Mr. CanavanI thank my hon. Friend for getting some action on this matter. Is he aware that I recently visited the 435 site of the former hospital in Killearn, which has now been lying derelict for about three years? Does he agree with me that it is a disgrace that such valuable public property, including houses and other expensive residential accommodation, should be lying vacant for such a prolonged period? Will he investigate the possibility of using the property for some educational or recreational purpose?
§ Mr. McElhoneMy hon. Friend has been most assiduous in pressing this matter, as he is in all matters concerning his constituency. I can give him the assurance that I shall try to bring the matter to an early conclusion.