§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what action he proposes to take in response to the decision taken by the Doncaster health authority regarding the expression of interest; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyNone. The decision on whether to submit a formal application for NHS trust status, when Parliament has approved the necessary legislation, is a matter for the sponsors of the expression of interest in the unit concerned. When formal applications are prepared, RHAs will ensure that they are given local publicity and will seek the views of those with an interest including the health authorities concerned. My right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State will consider these views alongside the application, before deciding whether to approve it.