§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he received the alternative proposals for funding the East Ayrshire community hospital from the Ayrshire and Arran community health trust; when he expects to announce his decision; and if he will make a statement. [1488]
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamilton[holding answer 4 November 1996]: I received the full business case from the Ayrshire and Arran community health trust on 2 September. However, the preferred bidder sought time to revise the bid and was given until 1 November to submit final figures in support of his bid. I expect to be able to announce my decision shortly.