§ Mr. Robin CookTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what guidelines his Department uses in assessing the bed size of new general hospitals.
§ Mrs. CurrieI assume the hon. Member is referring to the number of beds. It is for health authorities to determine the number of beds required to meet planned levels of service provision. There are no restrictions on the size of a new district general hospital. Proposals for major capital investments are required by departmental guidance to be tested by option appraisal and submitted for approval by the Department where costs exceed £5 million. Proposals exceeding £10 million require Treasury approval. The option selected must represent best value for money taking account of local needs and circumstances.