§ Mr. Nicholas BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what estimates her Department has made as to the cost to public funds of providing private health care within the NHS including the costs of capital investment and training of medical staff. [15767]
(2) if her Department will commission an independent inquiry to establish the full costs of providing private health care within the NHS; including the costs of capital investment and training of medical staff. [15766]
§ Mr. SackvillePrivate practice in the national health service results in further funds being made available to improve services for all patients and reduces the burden on public funds. Private patients are charged at a commercial rate. The availability of private practice in the NHS increases choice for patients. An independent inquiry would divert resources unnecessarily from patient care.