§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will cause an investigation to be made to ascertain how and why the £6 million new extension to Great Ormond Street hospital had to be closed immediately upon opening due to severe building faults; what action has or will be taken against those responsible; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Dr. VaughanAn independent firm of structural engineers, Dr. S. P. Christie and Partners, was appointed by the board of the Hospital for Sick Children in September 1980 to investigate what appeared to be faults in the design and construction of the new cardiac unit and to propose remedies.
Its investigation is not yet complete, but interim reports have shown some serious defects. The board has decided, as a precautionary measure, that patients and staff should not occupy the building until it is safe.
I cannot say what action the board will take against those responsible until they, and the full extent of their failure, have been identified. But this aspect too is being actively pursued.
I shall make a statement when the full facts are known.