§ Dr. Godmanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the public or professional bodies which regulate the establishment of private nursing homes in Scotland; and if he will make a statement on the safeguards to ensure that an adequate standard of service is provided by these homes.
§ Mr. John MacKayIn addition to applying to the local planning authority concerned for any planning permission which may be necessary, persons seeking to establish a private nursing home or hospital are required to apply for registration to the health board for the area in which it is to be located. Private hospital developments of 120 beds or more require the specific authorisation of the Secretary of State. As registering authorities, health boards are empowered by the Nursing Home Registration (Scotland) Act 1938, as amended, and associated regulations, to inspect the registered establishments in their area at regular intervals to ensure that adequate standards of care and accommodation are provided and maintained.