HC Deb 03 December 1996 vol 286 cc783-4
6. Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations his Department has received regarding possible changes in the role and functions of community health councils. [5615]

Mr. Horam

I have received a number of representations regarding the role and functions of community health councils, in connection with the report on the resourcing and performance management of community health councils, which will be published shortly, inviting comments.

I assure the hon. Gentleman that we value the role played by CHCs, as independent statutory bodies, and have no intention of changing either their role or their functions.

Mr. Pike

Is it true that the performance of CHCs will be reviewed? If so, who will conduct the review and how will that be done? Is it not essential that CHCs continue to be the patients' representatives in the national health service?

Mr. Horam

I agree entirely with the hon. Gentleman's assertion that CHCs should continue to be the patients' representatives and put patients' complaints fairly and squarely to the relevant authorities. The review has been completed, and I shall publish the results shortly. There will then be a period of consultation when all can make their views plain on the contents of the report. I should add that the Association of Community Health Councils for England and Wales was represented on the steering committee of the review, and helped to choose the consultants who undertook that review.

Mr. Rowe

Does my hon. Friend accept that one of the functions of CHCs is to help patients to make complaints? One of my local provider trusts sent out 35,000 invitations to households to attend its annual meeting. Only one patient and his wife attended. Does not that suggest that, contrary to the stories peddled by the Labour party, satisfaction with the way in which the national health service is working is very high?

Mr. Horam

Indeed it is. As my hon. Friend will be aware, the settlement, particularly as regards Kent, is another feather in the cap of my right hon. Friend, who has fought continuously for extra funds for the national health service.