§ Mr. WatsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his approval has been sought by Greater Glasgow health board to sell off its hospital shops currently run by the Women's Royal Voluntary Service and replace them with a commercial service; and what is his policy towards the adoption of such a policy by other health boards.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythGreater Glasgow health board has not made any approach to my right hon. and learned Friend on this matter. I understand, however, that there have been discussions with the Women's Royal Voluntary Service about a particular site at Gartnavel general hospital.
Health boards have been advised by the Scottish Home and Health Department that they should pay close attention to the views of the Women's Royal Voluntary Service and other voluntary organisations when formulating proposals that would have an effect on the facilities used by these bodies to provide services for patients.