§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a further statement on the progress which has been made in setting up outstations of the Institute of Hearing Research.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisI am pleased to announce that approval has been given to the setting up of an out-station of the Institute of Hearing Research at the Royal South Hants Hospital, Southampton. The Medical Research Council has appointed Dr. A. R. D. Thornton to take charge of research activities and the first appointment of supporting National Health Service staff will be made next month. A second English outstation is being planned and discussions over its precise location are taking place with the health authorities concerned.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland reached formal agreement with the Medical Research Council and the Greater Glasgow Health Board in November 1977 for the establishment of an outstation at the Southern General Hospital, Glasgow. Arrangements are being made for the provision of the necessary accommodation and equipment and for the recruitment of staff.
In Wales, as my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Wales announced this week, agreement has also been reached for the establishment of an outstation at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.