§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what discussions his Department has had with the University of Edinburgh and Lothian health board with regard to the replacement of the dental hospital in Edinburgh; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if it is still his policy to build a replacement for the Royal infirmary in Edinburgh; and when he expects to make an announcement.
§ Mr. Stewart[holding answer 2 March 1993]: Discussions between the University of Edinburgh and Lothian health board and the Scottish Office Home and Health Department about the proposed new Edinburgh dental hospital continue. My right hon. Friend remains fully committed to providing such capital investment as is necessary to establish the dental hospital. It will be for the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary NHS trust, if its application for trust status is approved, to take forward plans for a new dental hospital in consultation with prospective purchasing health boards.
§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if it is still his policy to build a new dental hospital in Edinburgh; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Stewart[holding answer 2 March 1993]: Policy on the distribution of acute hospitals in Edinburgh is a matter primarily for Lothian health board, in consultation with the Scottish Office Home and Health Department and subject to the approval of my right hon. Friend. Consultations are continuing and proposals will be issued for public consultation in due course.