§ Mr. Ernie Rossasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many hospitals have been closed in Scotland since May 1979; what notification the Scottish Home and Health Department has had of impending closures; and if he will give the reason in each case.
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§ Mr. FairgrieveThe information is as follows:
Number of hospitals Reason for closure 1. Hospitals closed since May 1979 … 6 5—following commissioning of a new hospital 1—facilities not used 2. Hospital closures agreed by Secretary of State but which have not yet taken place 15 10—following commissioning of a new hospital 4—development of another existing hospital 1—facilities to be provided elsewhere 3. Proposed closures now under consideration by Secretary of State 8 6—following commissioning of a new hospital 1—development of another existing hospital 1—facilities to be provided elsewhere Other closures will be considered as circumstances, the Health Service responds to changing needs and