§ Mr. McWilliamasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why Dunston Hill hospital is being closed for two weeks in February.
§ Mr. WhitneyI understand that the Gateshead health authority has no proposal to close Dunston Hill hospital.
§ Mr. McWilliamasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether the report of the geriatric advisory committee of his Department into Normans Riding and Dunston Hill hospital will be made available to hon. Members.
§ Mr. WhitneyI understand that a copy of the joint report of the Health Advisory Service and the Department's Social Services Inspectorate on services for elderly people in Gateshead health district will shortly be published: a copy will be placed in the Library.
§ Mr. McWilliamasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when the last full inspection of Dunston Hill hospital by a properly qualified fire prevention officer was carried out.
§ Mr. WhitneyThe Tyne and Wear county fire brigade carried out an inspection at the timber clad wards at Dunston Hill hospital in July 1985. The brigade's recommendations were accepted by the Gateshead health authority and those requiring urgent action have been acted upon. Other recommendations will be implemented as part of the upgrading programme for the whole hospital. I understand that the health authority has appointed a full-time fire prevention officer who is expected to take up post in the very near future.