§ 21. Mr. Hickmetasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the extent of cooperation between the private and public sectors in the provision of health care.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeNo. The increasing interest shown by both sectors in a whole range of co-operative ventures is encouraging, and news of successful arrangements is always welcome. But there is scope for greater collaboration. Health authorities should make increased use of private sector facilities for the treatment of NHS patients wherever this is a cost effective way of improving or extending the service they can provide.