asked the Minister of Health if he will make available under the Health Service, out-patient spa treatment to patients of other hospitals than the spa hospitals when such treatment has been advised by the specialist.

No, Sir. I am advised that spa treatment should only be given under the supervision of the appropriate specialist at the spa hospital.

Is the Minister aware that there is a large number of people waiting for spa treatment; that spa hospitals are full, and that this treatment has been recommended by specialists who are capable of prescribing it, and could not he do something to make this treatment available to the people requiring it without their having to go to the spa hospitals?

I understand that the Question on the Paper is about special treatment and special hospitals. If the hon. and gallant Member has treatment for rheumatism in mind at other hospitals, that is now provided under specialist care.

asked the Minister of Health what facilities there are in Wales for spa treatment under the National Health Service; and whether he will make a statement.

I understand that the regional hospital board have made arrangements for hospitals at or near Llandrindod Wells to use the spa facilities there.