§ Mr. Archerasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) whether the Government have assessed the effects of the closure of the gas industry on the development plan for the Mater hospital;
(2) what estimate the Government have made for the additional expenditure that will arise from redesigning the development plan for the Mater hospital to use an alternative fuel; and how much expenditure has already been incurred in laying a new 6in gas main to the Mater hospital development site.
§ Mr. Chris PattenWhile it had been proposed to use gas as the main fuel for the proposed new boiler plant, it has been decided to revert to oil. This has necessitated some redesign of the boilerhouse at an estimated additional cost of £86,700 including professional fees and has caused some delay to the programme. The cost of new gas mains already provided will be approximately £18,700, including professional fees.