§ Mr. Sternasked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent the terms of reference of community health councils include the oversight of the prison medical service where there is one of Her Majesty's Prisons in their locality; and whether he will enter into consultations with a view to clarifying their terms of reference.
§ Mr. John PattenCommunity health councils have a duty to represent the interests in the health service of the public in their districts. This does not extend to the prison medical service, for which my right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary is accountable to Parliament. Medical facilities in individual establishments are subject to scrutiny by boards of visitors and inspection by Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Prisons, whose reports to my right hon. and learned Friend are published.