§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Health regarding the use of surplus beds at Osborne convalescent home by recuperating NHS patients. [127312]
§ Mr. Chris Smith[holding answer 22 June 2000]: Osborne House Convalescent Home remains open until the middle of October 2000 to recuperating NHS patients who are serving or retired members of the armed forces or the civil service. There has been no reason to discuss this current facility with the Secretary of State for Health, although note has been taken of the substantial alternative private sector provision available on the Isle of Wight.