§ Ms LynneTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what opportunities there are for public scrutiny of self-governing trusts; and how many trusts hold open public meetings.
§ Dr. MawhinneyNational health service trusts are obliged by law to hold at least one public meeting each year at which they present their annual report and 81W accounts. They are also required to publish their strategic direction and business plans. The local community health council has the right to visit NHS trust facilities and service contracts with health authorities are publicly available. Many trusts go beyond these requirements.