§ Dr. Mawhinneyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will set out the timetable for restructuring the National Health Service.
§ Dr. VaughanI have already announced my right hon. Friend's decision on the future pattern of district health authorities for the Wessex region, and expect to announce decisions for the other regions by the end of May. I also expect that Chairmen and members of the new authorities in the autumn to appoint their future chief officers and to begin to consider their future management arrangements. Subject to approval of the necessary constitution and boundary orders, the new authorities will take over from the present area health authorities on 1 April 1982. The Whitley Councils are already aware of the need to negotiate appropriate new agreements on pay and gradings within this timetable.