HC Deb 17 February 1997 vol 290 cc410-1W
Mr. John D. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) what public funds are involved in the proposed purchase of Thompson's egg store, Dobbin street, Armagh, to provide additional health clinic facilities; and if he will make a statement; [15471]

(2) what plans he has to sell the doctors' health clinic at Dobbin street, Armagh; and if he will make a statement. [15472]

Mr. Moss

Responsibility for the subjects in these questions has been delegated to Health Estates under its chief executive, Mr. R. H. Browne. I have asked him to arrange for a reply to be given.

Letter from R. H. Browne to Mr. John D. Taylor, dated 14 February 1997: I have been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Questions to the Secretary of State regarding plans to sell the health centre at Dobbin Street Lane, Armagh and the use of public funds in the purchase of Thompson's Egg Store, Armagh. Whilst no formal approach has been made, it is understood that the general practitioners who operate from the health centre are interested in buying the property. In the event of an approach being received from the general practitioners, the property would be offered to them at a price negotiated by the Valuation and Lands Agency. The sale would be conditional upon a lease-back arrangement in respect of the accommodation occupied by staff of Armagh and Dungannon HSS Trust. As regards Thompson's Egg Store, I am not aware of any proposal, involving public funds, to purchase the store for the provision of additional health facilities. I hope you find this information helpful.