§ Mr. Wrayasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) how many private hospitals have been built and put into operation in the London region for each year since 1979;
(2) how many hospitals for the practice of private medicine have been built and put into operation since 1979.
§ Mrs. CurrieThis information is not available in the form requested. However, I understand from the164W Independent Hospitals Association that since 1979 there has been a net increase of 50 private hospitals in England, nine of which are within the area covered by the four Thames regional health authorities. Information for Scotland and Wales is a matter for my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales.