§ Mr. ChopeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer of 26 February 2004,Official Report, columns 555–56W, on Saxon Square Health Centre (Christchurch), for what reasons it is not in the best interests of the NHS for further negotiations to be held immediately with the head leaseholder; with which NHS trust negotiations are taking place for a transfer of the leasehold; when discussions began; and when he expects them to conclude. [159285]
§ Mr. Hutton[holding answer 5 March 2004]: The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch National Health Service Trust has expressed an interest to occupy this health centre.
Negotiations with the trust commenced in October 2003 and they will be completed as soon as possible. Progress is dependent on the costs to be incurred by the trust to occupy these offices.
Where property is held on a lease, it is usual that the head lessee will only be approached when a fully appraised proposal has been prepared.