§ 27. Mr. Win GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many NHS trusts are meeting the financial targets set by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the impact of financial targets on medical care. [5636]
§ Mr. HoramTrusts currently have three financial targets set by the Department. From the latest estimates available, the number of trusts forecasting to achieve the targets are:
- (a)335 trusts will break even on income and expenditure.
- (b)283 trusts will make a return on capital of 6 per cent.
- (c)416 trusts will meet their external financing limit.
Financial targets in the national health service are making a real contribution to the efficient running of the service. The targets ensure that financial planning is performed effectively to deliver continual improvements in medical care throughout the year.