§ Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement detailing his reasons for closing the Scottish Physiotherapy Hospital and School; and if he will ensure that this hospital and school will continue in full use until the new Department at the Southern General Hospital is fully operational.
§ Mr. RossThe Scottish Physiotherapy Hospital and School is an independent voluntary institution. It approached my Department in 1964 seeking financial assistance in order to carry on its work. After discussion it was agreed that since the premises could not be brought up to an adequate standard without excessive cost the National Health Service should provide for the future alternative facilities for the treating of patients and the training of physiotherapy students. In the meantime the Western Regional Board agreed to subsidise the hospital.
564WA new training school at Lancaster Crescent, Glasgow, has been established by the regional board and started taking students in October, 1968. The school will replace the school at the Physiotherapy Hospital and no new students are being accepted for training at the hospital. There will be a gradual rundown at that school until some time in 1970. The subsidy will continue to be paid during this period. It is expected that the practical facilities to be provided at the Southern General Hospital will be in operation by about June, 1970.