Wharfedale General Hospital

Mr. Truswell
To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will examine the time so far taken to draw up plans for the redevelopment of Wharfedale General Hospital; and if he will ensure that the process is completed within a reasonable time scale. [5279]

Mr. Milburn
This is a matter for Leeds Health Authority and the United Leeds Teaching Hospitals National Health Service Trust in consultation with the National Health Service Executive which has asked the trust to submit a revised outline business case for consideration. This will give the opportunity for a fresh assessment of the choices for the proposed development.