§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the current market-testing programme agreed with the Prescription Pricing Authority; and, for each of the elements of the programme, what is the point in the process so far achieved and the target date for completion.
§ Mr. MaloneThe current market-testing programme for the Prescription Pricing Authority includes prescription processing; management and maintenance of the authority's estate; mainframe computer support; security, portering, catering and central administrative services; and information division processing support. Market testing of the prescription processing service and information division processing, which together employ 1,500 staff, is well advanced. Contracts will be in place by 1 May 1995. Work on remaining elements of the programme will begin shortly, with completion anticipated by 31 March 1996.