HC Deb 26 July 1984 vol 64 cc1220-1
2. Mr. A. Cecil Walker

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he is satisfied that the management and accounting methods now used by the health and social service boards are effective in minimising misuse of public funds.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mr. Chris Patten)

Yes, Sir; but there is room for improvement. Progress is being made in the greater use of information technology and more efficient systems are being developed to cover budgetary control, payroll, nurse management, patient administration and stores control.

On health service management, I have initiated a wide-ranging action programme based on a recently completed review of the structure and management of the services. I am also considering what action is necessary to secure in Northern Ireland the improvements in the management of the health and personal social services advocated in the Griffiths report.

Mr. Walker

I am happy to hear that reply. Is the Minister aware that there is serious anxiety among employees and employers in the Royal Victoria hospital? They suspect that some employees are manipulating the system to deprive taxpayers of money. Will the Minister please investigate such charges with the managing body of the hospital?

Mr. Patten

Certainly such charges need to be investigated. I am aware of a recent case which was drawn to the attention of the chairman of the board by an hon. Member. I believe that appropriate action has been taken as a result. I hope that any other cases will be referred to me or to the chairman of the appropriate board.

Mr. Archer

While ensuring that public funds are protected from the unmeritorious, is the Minister taking steps to ensure that people receive their proper entitlements? Does he agree that the Belfast law centre not only provides much needed advice and information, but helps people to perceive the law as something that can help them and that it is worthy of respect? If so, will he at least maintain the centre's level of real funding?

Mr. Patten

The grant to the Belfast law centre is not strictly a matter for me. I am sure that the right hon. and learned Gentleman will have been as pleased as I was that the Social Security Advisory Committee, when it came to Northern Ireland, particularly commended my Department's efforts to encourage take-up. We are discussing with the Belfast law centre and others ways of helping people to become aware of their rights under welfare legislation.

Dr. Glyn

In his review, will my hon. Friend take into account the attempts being made in England to cut the costs of administration and to give a better service to the patient by providing more doctors and nurses?

Mr. Patten

Yes, Sir. We have consulted on the Griffiths report and hope to bring forward proposals in the autumn for implementation, where appropriate, in Northern Ireland, given the difference in its structure.

Rev. Martin Smyth

I welcome the import of the Minister's answers. Does the concern extend to boards other than the Eastern Health and Social Services Board? The hon. Gentleman says that information technology is being used. As what is put in is what comes out, does he consider that there are sufficient safeguards to prevent misuse of the information?

Mr. Patten

My concern covers each board. I hope that there are sufficient safeguards. However, if the hon. Gentleman has any evidence to suggest that there are not, I should like to hear from him.