§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what information he has obtained from Welsh ambulance trusts regarding the number of ex-ambulance trust employees on early retirement using their own cars to drive ambulant patients to out-patient clinics; what guidance he has given with respect to(a) remuneration, (b) clawback, (c) insurance and (d) future policy; and if he will make a statement. [15994]
§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the chairman of the South East Wales ambulance trust concerning issues of regularity and propriety in the conduct of the trust's affairs; what notice he has been given of the reason for the extraordinary board meeting scheduled for 15 February; and if he will make a statement. [15984]
§ Mr. HagueI have had no such consultations. My Department expressed concern to the trust about its business position in 1994–95 and required that specific action be taken to resolve its financial problems. By 43W December 1995, it had become clear that there had been an inadequate response. The Department insisted that the trust review urgently its managerial and financial controls. This review has revealed serious weaknesses in these areas and inadequate supervision of trust affairs by the board. It is for the board to decide on the timing and purpose of its meetings.