§ Mr. George Robertsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to authorise the plans for a 120-bed long-stay unit at Udston hospital, Hamilton; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayMy Department has been in detailed discussion with Lanarkshire health board over the proposed development of 120 geriatric and psychiatric assessment beds at Hairmyres hospital, East Kilbride and 120 geriatric and psychogeriatric long-stay beds at Udston hospital, Hamilton. The capital cost of this combined development, which would be met from central funds, is estimated at about £6 million on present plans. The Department is currently awaiting additional information from the health board to support its case for the project, and approval to the project will have to await the receipt and consideration by the Department of that information.