Southern General Hospital, Edinburgh

28.

Mr. Eric Clarke
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the expected starting date and completion date of the new Southern general hospital in Edinburgh.

Mr. Stewart
Policy on the provision of a new teaching hospital in Edinburgh is a matter primarily for Lothian health board, subject to public consultation and the approval of my right hon. and noble Friend. I understand that Lothian health board plans to issue proposals for public consultation in due course.