asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether she will make a statement about the future provision of geriatric beds and facilities in Nuneaton and Coventry hospitals.

On current planning norms the North Warwickshire (Nuneaton) health district has a shortfall of about 100 geriatric beds, Coventry about 15. 196 new beds will shortly become available at Walsgrave Hospital, Coventry, but they are likely to be needed to replace existing unsatisfactory accommodation. The health authorities concerned are considering how the shortfalls can be met.