§ Mr. S. C. Silkinasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will hold consultations with a view 352W to bringing redundant hospitals into use as accommodation for persons on bail, alcoholics, inadequates and others for whom prison is unnecessary or unsuitable; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrittanThe accommodation required for new bail hostels or the other purposes that the right hon. and learned Member mentions varies according to local needs; and hospitals may not be easily adaptable to these purposes. We are sure, however, that the authorities responsible for providing such accommodation will consider making use of any suitable premises which become available through the closure of a hospital.