asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans he has to upgrade the Royal Hospital, Richmond; when he plans to reinstate in-patient and out-patient services; on what date this plan will be approved; and when the upgraded hospital will be functioning.

The South-West Thames regional health authority and the Kingston and Richmond area health authority are jointly considering proposals for upgrading in-patient accommodation and it is not yet possible to determine when this work might be completed. Out-patient services continue to be provided.