§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursTo ask the Secretary of State for Health, pursuant to the Minister for Health's oral answer to the hon. Member for Derbyshire, North-East (Mr. Barnes) of 22 March,Official Report, column 125, and her written answer of 10 May, Official Report, column 90, what evidence has been drawn to her attention of the existence of a two-tier health system within the NHS.
§ Dr. MawhinneyA two-tier system does not operate in the national health service.
Occasionally, information about alleged differentials in service provision is brought to my attention from both within and outside the NHS. Such claims are investigated; they have been shown to reflect different purchasing contracts not "two-tierism". Trusts are reminded of the agreement with the British Medical Association that they may not offer contracts to one purchaser which would thereby disadvantage the patients of another. They are expected to ensure that any services provided conform with this agreement.