§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what is his Department's normal practice with regard to consultation with interested parties and the seeking of external advice before taking a decision to contribute to the funding of the purchase of special medical equipment;
(2) what is his Department's working definition of external advice used in the context of consultation with interested parties before taking a decision to provide funds for the purchase of special medical equipment.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyThere is no set procedures. Each case would be considered on its merits.