§ Dr. Roger Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many hospital beds in hospitals opened since 1978 are still not in use; and what is the estimated cost of keeping these beds and wards empty.
§ Sir George YoungSince 1978, approximately 71 major new hospital developments have been completed. In seven cases delays in bringing new facilities into use have led to 1,575 beds remaining unopened at present although they are progressively being brought into use. Information about the cost of maintaining the unopened accommodation is not available centrally.