§ Mr. Terry Fieldsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is has Department's policy with regard to the future of the Royal children's hospital, Heswall, Merseyside; and whether there are plans for private development whilst the hospital is still occupied by children.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI understand that the health authorities have been giving careful consideration to the future of the hospital and that Liverpool health authority expects early in the new year to issue a consultation document for consideration by all local interests including the community health council. The health authorities will not come to a conclusive view about the future of the hospital until the consultation procedures have been carried out in full. If any significant change is proposed the matter will come to Ministers for our decision, There are no plans for private development of the site while the hospital remains occupied by children.