§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the number of hospital units interested in self-governing status where(a) a ballot includes more than 50 per cent. of consultants in support of an application, (b) more than 50 per cent. of consultants opposed to an application and (c) no ballot has taken place and is unlikely to do so.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyWe have consistently made it clear that it would not be appropriate for changes in management of National Health Service services to be subject to ballots, and we have not asked for data on ballots. Regional health authorities will seek the views of community health councils and other parties with an interest, including consultants and other staff, on individual proposals before any decisions are made.