HC Deb 15 December 1976 vol 922 cc1517-8
24. Mr. Donald Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when funds will be available for the construction of the hospital and old folk's home in the island of Barra.

Mr. Harry Ewing

It is not possible to say at present when funds will become available, but a start has been made to the joint planning of the project by the Western Isles Health Board and the Western Isles Island Council.

Mr. Stewart

I thank the Minister for that reply and express my appreciation to him for his knowledge and concern. Will he bear in mind the urgent need for this facility and the fears felt by the people of Barra that the scheme will be kept indefinitely in cold storage.

Mr. Ewing

Yes, Sir. The hon. Gentleman has approached me on other occasions on this topic, and I shall keep the matter in mind.

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