§ 7. Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many applications have been received for general practitioner fund-holding practices.
§ Mr. HanleyNone, Sir. Applications have not yet been invited, but we are intending to do so by the end of this year.
§ Rev. Martin SmythWill the Minister kindly tell us the reason for the delay as the management plan said that applications should be in by 1 July? Is that a reflection of the fact that many GPs in Northern Ireland oppose fund-holding status?
§ Mr. HanleyFund-holding status has been well received within Great Britain and the Government remain fully committed to its implementation in Northern Ireland. As the hon. Gentleman rightly said, fund-holding will commence a year later than originally planned. The reason for the postponement is to allow the Department and the boards more time to undertake the detailed work involved in the implementation of fund-holding. To be frank, I believe that we can benefit from the opportunity to learn from the experience in Great Britain.