§ Mr. Thurnhamasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received recently about the level of capital expenditure in the National Health Service during the next two years; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacGregorVarious representations have been received about the level of capital expenditure in the NHS. The Government have increased provision for NHS capital264W expenditure by over 20 per cent. in real terms since 1979. Our public expenditure plans set out in Cmnd. 9702 allow for this level to be maintained over the next few years. Forty-three major new hospital schemes, each costing over £5 million, are planned to start over the next three years.