. Marilyn Livingstone (Kirkcaldy) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive what plans it has to upgrade and improve the health centre facilities at Whyteman's Brae, Kirkcaldy. (S3O-5084)

NHS Fife is planning to transfer the podiatry service from Kirkcaldy health centre to Whyteman's Brae. That will free up accommodation in Kirkcaldy health centre to allow for expansion of the general practitioner practices based there.

I will meet NHS Fife and staff at Whyteman's Brae later this month. The centre at Whyteman's Brae provides GP and community health services to some of the most disadvantaged communities. Does the Scottish Government have any plans to make additional resources available to support health practices such as Whyteman's Brae, to give them the additional support that is needed to provide a wide range of health services in disadvantaged communities?

I am reviewing the proposals from all boards on the use of primary and community care premises modernisation programme funds. I expect to be able to advise boards of the results shortly. In addition to those funds, Fife has access to its normal capital allocation. My officials will be working with the board to help it to deliver its identified projects as quickly as possible. NHS Fife has received an increase of £0.768 million over its 2007-08 formula capital allocation. It has also been notified of its indicative formula capital allocations for the next two financial years. I am happy to remain in communication with the member over the issue.