§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what mechanisms exist to resolve disagreements on strategic decisions at local level between purchasers and providers and community health councils. [16348]
§ Mr. MaloneHealth authorities are expected to consult health care providers about local health strategies and to make every endeavour to resolve differences locally. Disagreement between health authorities and providers can be referred to the regional health authority for arbitration as set out in EL(91)11, "NHS Contracts: Guidance on Resolving Disputes." Health Authorities are required, under regulation 19 of the Community Health Council Regulations, as amended, to consult the community health council on proposals for substantial developments or variations in the provision of health services in the district. Copies of EL(91)11 are available in the Library.
§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is her policy on the extent to which the strategic planning of health provision at local level may be affected by the decisions of private investors of capital. [16351]
§ Mr. SackvilleThe strategic planning of health provision is undertaken by the national health service. It is not affected by the decisions of private investors of capital.