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Hospital Building Programme

03 November 2021

Lead MP

Kieran Mullan
Bexhill and Battle
Con

Responding Minister

Edward Argar

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Word Count: 14535
Other Contributors: 10

At a Glance

Kieran Mullan raised concerns about hospital building programme in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

I urge the Government to consider Leighton Hospital as part of the final eight sites chosen for the hospital building programme, recognising its long-term financial sense and the improved healthcare it can provide in modern facilities.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Bexhill and Battle
Opened the debate
The hospital building programme for Leighton Hospital is critical due to the facility's aging infrastructure, serving a population of over 300,000 people. The original building was not designed to last beyond 30 years and has required extensive maintenance and upgrades costing £15 million for an emergency department extension in 2019. Independent analysis shows that maintaining the current estate will cost more than constructing a new one.

Government Response

Edward Argar
Government Response
Responded to questions raised by shadow minister about criteria for selecting hospitals, mentioned that safety and risk will be key factors in consideration. Discussed the importance of market certainty, phased programme approach due to construction industry demand and inflationary pressures. Noted that £3.7 billion has been allocated to the hospital building programme with further funding subject to future spending reviews. Stressed geographical spread for new hospitals, noting that 30 out of 40 are outside London and southeast. Addressed maintenance backlog and highlighted investment in community diagnostic centres. Acknowledged challenges posed by RAAC planks and mentioned provision of £20 million for critical risk remediation at Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn.
Assessment & feedback
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About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.