§ Mr. Bottomleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will consider changing the plan to burn heavy oil for heating the new South Teesside General Hospital to be built in Middlesbrough, in view of the oil shortage and the need to avoid increasing air pollution on Teesside.
§ Sir K. JosephDecisions on choice of fuel for hospitals are taken in accordance with guidance provided by my Department, the broad intention being to use the lowest-cost fuel taking account of both capital and running expenses. Some preference for coal over oil is permissible. I am advised that that there is no justification for treating this case exceptionally.