§ Mr. Holtasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he has any plans to accelerate the current hospital building programme.
§ Mr. HayhoeOne of the Government's priorities for the National Health Service is the continuing development and modernisation of health service buildings. A substantial capital investment of £765 million in 1986–87 rising to £805 million in 1988–89 is being provided for this purpose, and this sum will be supplemented by the proceeds of sales of surplus land and buildings which health authorities will retain. These receipts are expected to increase markedly from the current level of £50 million a year. Higher investment together with improved value for money is bringing tangible benefits to patients—new hospitals and the refurbishment and upgrading of existing buildings.
At present in England 147 hospital schemes costing over £2 million each are being planned, designed or built which represents a commitment by the Government of over £1 billion. This programme will provide new hospital facilities in every region in the country.