§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with health boards on problems of maintenance in hospitals due for replacement by new general hospitals.
§ Mr. John MacKayThe routine maintenance of all hospital buildings in Scotland is the responsibility of health boards until the property is sold. My Department makes a special allocation of funds for backlog maintenance projects which are carried out in accordance with priorities determined by the board concerned. In addition regular discussions are held between my officials and area maintenance managers on matters relating to the maintenance of the NHS estate in Scotland.