asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he expects that building works on the new Brotton-Skelton 70-bed community hospital will be commenced.

Regional health authorities are responsible for the planning of capital schemes in the light of their available resources and competing local priorities. We understand that no firm date can yet be given for the start of the Brotton-Skelton hospital pending completion by the Northern regional health authority of the review of its capital programme which is currently in progress. My hon. Friend may wish to write for more detailed information to the chairman of the northern regional health authority.