§ Mr. WyattTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what factors led to the construction of two new wards in the Sittingbourne Memorial Hospital in 1996–97; what funding was secured to staff and equip them; and when they will be staffed and equipped. [41920]
§ Mr. MilburnThe two new wards (for rehabilitation and general practitioner services) were constructed at the same time as the rest of the new community hospital at Sittingbourne. However, the costs of providing the full range of services at the new hospital had to be revised upwards. Since April 1997 West Kent Health Authority has funded outpatients, minor injuries and psychiatric day services at Sittingbourne hospital. West Kent Health Authority and Thames Gateway National Health Service Trust are aiming to open the two wards for rehabilitation and GP services by the end of this financial year.