§ Mr. McFallTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received from the medical profession on the implications of the Government's502W opt-out proposals for hospitals for an integrated health provision in district health authority areas in the United Kingdom.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyWe have received representations on this subject from a number of organisations and individuals. DHAs will be responsible for planning and securing a comprehensive range of services to meet the health care needs of their population. In doing this they will contract with a range of service providers, including NHS trusts which will remain an integral part of the NHS.