§ Mr. Ron DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what information he has as to how many ballots of staff and patients on the question of the formation of self-governing trusts have resulted in majorities in favour.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyWe are aware that ballots on the establishment of National Health Service trusts have38W taken place in a number of units, however, we have consistently made clear that it would not be appropriate or necessary for changes in management of National Health Service services to be subject to ballots. Applications for National Health Service trust status will not be invited until Parliament has approved the necessary legislation. Staff and the local community will then have an opportunity to express their views on individual proposals before any formal applications are made.
§ Mr. McAvoyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what evidence he has of the views of National Health Service staff or patients for the formation of self-governing trusts.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyA total of 193 units have so far expressed an interest in NHS trust status, with some 80 indicating that they may seek trust status in 1991. This demonstrates the keen interest with which senior NHS staff, including members of the medical and nursing profession, view the prospect of establishing NHS trusts. However, applications for NHS trust status will not be invited until Parliament has approved the necessary legislation. Staff and the local community will then have an opportunity to express their views on individual proposals before any formal applications are made.