§ Mr. Geoffrey RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the current backlog of maintenance work in the NHS. [2794]
§ Mr. HoramThe current backlog maintenance estimate for the national health service for 1995–96 is £2.41 billion, which compares with £2.32 billion for 1994–95. This figure includes estimated costs for maintenance on all properties in the NHS due to be replaced, not used for patient care, awaiting planned preventative maintenance and awaiting disposal. '['hey also include an element for meeting statutory and safety standards.