§ Mr. StewartTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with the Greater Glasgow health board concerning future NHS provision from the site of Mearnskirk hospital; and if he will make a statement. [6890]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonGreater Glasgow health board has granted preferred provider status to the Victoria Infirmary NHS trust for the development of 60 care of the elderly beds at Mearnskirk hospital. It is expected that this facility will more than match expected future needs in that sector. Both the board and the trust are keen to seek best value for money and to ensure that the proposed development is of a high standard and provides an environment best suited to providing care.
§ Mr. StewartTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to reach a decision on the future development of Mearnskirk hospital, Newton Mearns. [6891]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThe Victoria Infirmary NHS trust remains on track to open new facilities at Mearnskirk hospital in 1998.
§ Mr. StewartTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with East Renfrewshire council concerning a partnership for the provision of future services from Meanskirk hospital. [6900]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonNone. Having been granted preferred provider status by Greater Glasgow health board for the development of 60 care of the elderly beds at Mearnskirk hospital, I understand the Victoria Infirmary NHS trust is currently considering how the private finance initiative might contribute to establishing the new unit. Its plans do not involve East Renfrewshire council, and I understand that neither Greater Glasgow health board nor the Victoria Infirmary NHS trust is aware of any discussions with East Renfrewshire council in relation to this development.