§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has held with Argyll and Clyde health board concerning the development of Elderslie hospital; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythArgyll and Clyde health board has submitted to my Department proposals which will enable the young handicapped patients residing in Elderslie hospital to live as normal a life as possible in a community environment. On 12 June I announced that the sum of £12.4 million is to be made available to Scotland's health boards in bridging finance to develop and expand care in the community in conjunction with local authorities. Argyll and Clyde health board have been allocated £764,000 over a three-year period to enable them to implement immediately their plans for fully supported community units for the young residents of Elderslie.