asked the Minister of Health what decision has been taken about the proposed transfer of the South-Western Hospital, Landor Road, S.W.9, to St. Thomas's Hospital.

I am expecting to receive the recommendation of the Regional Hospital Board this week, and a decision will be taken as soon as this report has been considered.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that as a result of the delay that has taken place in this case—for which I do not blame him—the use of something like 100 hospital beds has been denied to the chronic sick in this particular area?