Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Whipps Cross Hospital: Redevelopment

Tuesday 15 October 2024 · 5 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 4 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The hospital was granted 1.2 million in August to undertake a business case, but the money has run out and 5 million is now needed.
  • The Minister stated that the previous Government's programme timetable was a work of fiction with a 22 billion financial shortfall.
  • The Department aims to deliver a credible and funded programme, providing clarity to constituents on the review outcome of Whipps Cross hospital redevelopment.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Iain Duncan Smith Con Chingford and Woodford Green
NHS
Context

The review of the new hospital programme is causing concern due to delays in funding for Whipps Cross hospital. The previous £1.2 million grant has run out, leaving a shortfall of £5 million required for readiness.

Question

I have campaigned together with the Secretary of State for the redevelopment of Whipps Cross hospital regardless of political party. The hospital was granted £1.2 million towards undertaking a business case in August but this money has run out. A total of £5 million is needed to be ready when the decision is made; otherwise, it will cost an additional £50 million over the next year to get architects and builders back. I beg him to ensure that the hospital receives this funding.

Answer from Wes Streeting

The practical considerations mentioned by the right hon. Gentleman are part of the review. We will deliver a credible plan that is also funded, unlike the previous Government's unrealistic promises and financial shortfalls.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Providing specific funding commitment for Whipps Cross hospital

How: We Are Not Going To Make The Same Mistake

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Q2 Iain Duncan Smith Con Chingford and Woodford Green
NHS
Context

The previous Government's approach towards Whipps Cross hospital has been criticised for lack of consistency in delivering the project.

Question

My constituents have endured five years of photo opportunities by the previous Government without any contracts being put in place. Does my right hon. Friend agree that only a fully costed, long-term Labour Government can deliver modern healthcare needed?

Answer from Wes Streeting

My hon. Friend is absolutely right about the need for honesty and clarity in delivering the new hospitals programme, turning it from press release into reality.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Providing a fully costed timeline or commitment for Whipps Cross hospital

How: We Will Deliver A Credible Plan

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Q3 Calvin Bailey Lab Leyton and Wanstead
NHS
Context

The previous Government's funding claims for hospital projects were questioned, with a £22 billion black hole identified.

Question

Many residents are concerned about the Government's review of the new hospitals programme that would have seen two new hospitals and other facilities. What representations has the Minister made to the Chancellor to retain this investment for the NHS in Leicestershire?

Answer from Wes Streeting

The hon. Gentleman asks what representations I am making, but the previous Government's programme timetable was a work of fiction and there was a £22 billion hole in public finances.

Not addressed: Providing specific representation details or commitment to retain investment

How: Previous Funding Claims Were Not True

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Q4 Peter Bedford Con Mid Leicestershire
NHS Economy Transport
Context

The previous Government's photo opportunities contrast with the lack of actual progress on Whipps Cross hospital. The project is seen as vital for healthcare improvements and local growth.

Question

I recently used Whipps Cross hospital, knowing firsthand how it desperately needs redevelopment. Does my right hon. Friend agree that finally getting this project moving under a Labour Government will also deliver thousands of much-needed homes in the community?

Answer from Wes Streeting

My hon. Friend is correct, as this project involves not just necessary hospitals but also economic benefits such as construction jobs, new homes, and improved transport infrastructure.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Providing a specific timeline or commitment for Whipps Cross hospital redevelopment

How: We Will Deliver A Credible Plan

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Q5 Stella Creasy Labour (Co-op) Walthamstow
NHS
Context

There is a need to establish a credible timeline for the new hospitals programme, particularly regarding Whipps Cross hospital redevelopment.

Question

What is the Department's timetable for announcing the outcome of its review concerning the proposed redevelopment of Whipps Cross hospital?

Answer from Wes Streeting

We will deliver on a credible timetable and funded programme, giving clarity to constituents. The previous Government's approach was unrealistic.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Providing specific dates for the announcement of Whipps Cross hospital review outcome

How: Previous Government'S Timeline Was Fiction

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