§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what decision has been reached to lease a new block of offices at Friary Court, Guildford, by the Hospital Board; and for what purpose this accommodation is needed;
(2) if he will inquire into contracts being placed by regional hospital boards for the acquisition of premises; and the directorships held by persons now serving as members of boards;
(3) to what extent regional hospital boards have been authorised to buy office accommodation in anticipation of National Health Service reorganisation and before legislation has been agreed by Parliament.
§ Sir K. JosephHospital authorities have been asked to review the potentialities of existing office accommodation, but any acquisition of freehold or leasehold permises requires my authority which at present is only being given to meet the needs of existing hospital authorities. A lease is being negotiated by the district valuer for accommodation at Friary Court, Guildford, to provide offices for staff of the South West Metropolitan Regional Hospital Board.