§ Mr. Harry BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what information his Department has on the cause of the fire in the research laboratories of Hammersmith hospital on 21 October; and whether it involved(a) the release of any toxic materials to the environment injurious of human or animal health or (b) damage to any medical machinery containing radioactive isotopes.
§ Mr. DorrellOfficials have received a full report about the fire, which occurred in a building owned by the Royal Postgraduate Medical school. Although the police have not completed their investigation, there is forensic evidence to suggest that the fire may have been started deliberately. There was no release of toxic materials, and no damage to equipment containing radioactive isotopes.
526Wmembers of Doncaster health authority. The chief officer and chief finance officer are ex-officio executive members of the authority. Up to three other executive members may be appointed by the chairman and non-executive members acting with the chief officer. Members are appointed for the individual skills and experience they can bring to the National Health Service. The hon. Member may wish to contact Sir Michael Carlisle, chairman of Trent regional health authority, for details.