§ Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what recent discussions he has had with the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board about its long-term hospital building programme; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AlisonMeetings have been arranged between officers of my Department and officers of the board in continuation of discussions on the building programme. I await a report on the results.
§ Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will 52W ensure that, in future, all officials of the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board undertake a course in public relations.
§ Mr. AlisonNo. I am satisfied with the regional hospital board's present arrangements.
§ Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many people are employed by the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board on administration; and what was the figure five years ago.
§ Mr. AlisonSix hundred and twenty and 338 in 1968. The increase is largely attributable to work on the introduction of incentive bonus schemes.
§ Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many people are employed by the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board on Press and publicity matters; and what was the figure five years ago.
§ Mr. AlisonFive. Until 1970 this work was undertaken by the board's senior officers.
§ Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is satisfied that the Birmingham Regional Hospital Board is getting a fair proportion of health service funds by comparison, on a population basis, with other regions.
§ Mr. AlisonAlthough population is a major factor in the allocation of funds to Birmingham and other regional hospital boards, it cannot be the sole basis of distribution. Other factors, for example, the quality and quantity of existing services, are also taken into account.