§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when the Davies Report on complaints by patients will be implemented; what discussions have taken place with the community health councils in relation to this report; and what is to be the rôle of community health councils in relation to the operation of the report.
§ Mrs. CastleI am still considering the Davies Committee's Report. I hope to make an announcement before too long. Community health councils had not been set up when consultations took place on the report. They will, however, be consulted on any proposals relating to complaints procedure in the health services arising from decisions on the report. Community health councils already have a part to play in relation to complaints: for example, in meeting requests for advice on making a complaint and in acting as "patient's friend" when needed. I would expect them to continue in this rôle in the future.