asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is yet able to make a statement on the future of Tornaveen Hostel for the mentally handicapped; and, if not, when he expects to be so able.

As the patients in Tornaveen House have demonstrated that they can live in the community with a certain amount of support I have agreed that the premises can be acquired and continue to be operated by the health board provided agreement can be reached with the social work authority on certain aspects of the arrangements.