§ Mr. Ashtonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) why male and female patients are now placed together at the John Coupland hospital, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire;
(2) how much money is being saved by placing men and women patients together at the John Coupland hospital, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire.
§ Mr. John PattenI am informed that there are no arrangements at the John Coupland hospital, Gainsborough under which male and female patients are required to share the same open ward accommodation. The precise arrangements existing at the hospital are the responsibility of local management and the hon. Member may therefore wish to write to the district administrator of North Lincolnshire health authority who will be able to provide the necessary details.