§ 4 and 5. Mr. Manuelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what steps have been taken to keep Ballochmyle House in use within the National Health Service;
(2) what representations he has received about the future of Ballochmyle House; and what replies he has sent.
§ Mr. MillanRepresentations about the future of Ballochmyle House have been received from the Ballochmyle Action Group which has passed to me a petition signed by about 1,600 persons interested in the house—from the Catrine Local Labour Party, the Scottish Georgian Society and the hon. Member for Glasgow, Hillhead (Mr. Galbraith).
The Board of Management for South Ayrshire Hospitals has considered the possibility of using Ballochmyle House for geriatric or convalescent purposes or as a pre-discharge unit but has found the building unsuitable for such purposes in its present condition. It is, therefore, surplus to its requirements. I have now decided to give other public bodies, including the local health authority, the opportunity to buy the house if they think it suitable for their purposes.