§ 47. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health to what extent hospital boards are expected to purchase domestic and other materials through his Department; and what authority he retains over the supply of these materials in respect of price, quality, and durability.
§ Mr. VosperCentral supply arrangements exist for a wide range of medical and domestic goods, and hospital authorities are expected to make full use of them: these arrangements are based on competitive tenders according to specification, and provision is made for inspection to ensure maintenance of quality.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the Minister aware that in some cases that have come to my notice and, I believe, that of other hon. Members, certain materials supplied in this way have proved ineffective, of poorer quality, or unsuitable in one way or another? Could not a certain amount of latitude be extended to local hospital committees to select commodities which they feel are more suitable than those supplied by the central authority?
§ Mr. VosperOnly a limited range of commodities is purchased centrally, and where real economies can be effected. If the hon. Gentleman will send me details of the case that he has in mind, I will gladly look at it.