§ Mr. SillarsTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the latest number of expressions of interest about hospital trust status received by his Department; and if he will name the hospitals concerned.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThere have been seven expressions of interest arising from which South Ayrshire and the Royal Scottish National hospitals have submitted applications and an application from Foresterhill (Aberdeen) is expected shortly. The Victoria infirmary (Glasgow), West Grampian unit and Princess Margaret Rose hospital (Edinburgh) are continuing exploratory work, but I have indicated to those promoting the Forfar proposal that it would not be appropriate for trust status in its original form.