§ Mr. DobsonTo ask the Prime Minister when the news media were informed of her intended visit to the Great Ormond Street hospital for sick children.
§ The Prime MinisterIn the normal way, the press was informed shortly before the visit took place.
§ Mr. DobsonTo ask the Prime Minister why she did not inform the hon. Member for Holborn and St. Pancras about her recent official visit to Great Ormond Street hospital for sick children; on what date the visit was decided upon; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterIt is my consistent practice to inform any Member of a visit to his or her constituency shortly before the visit is due to take place. It has not, however, been my practice to do so when the visit is in the central London area. I have been hoping to visit Great Ormond street for some time.
§ Mr. DobsonTo ask the Prime Minister what was the estimated cost to public funds of her visit to the Great Ormond Street hospital for sick children.
§ The Prime MinisterThe costs of visits of this nature are not readily identifiable.
§ Mr. DobsonTo ask the Prime Minister why Her Majesty's Government have refused to fund fully the refurbishment of the Great Ormond Street hospital for sick children; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Government are planning to commit over £27 million to this scheme. It was agreed with the trustees at the outset that private funds would play a major part in the development. This is entirely consistent with Government policy and I welcome the generosity and commitment already shown by industry, commerce and the general public.