§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will publish the public sector equivalent cost assessments for each project which is the subject of a PFI funding bid application currently under consideration by his Department. [18]
§ Mr. MilburnThe information requested could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will ensure that community health councils are given access to information on each relevant PFI funding application for NHS facilities. [20]
§ Mr. MilburnHealth authorities have a statutory duty to consult their local Community Health Councils (CHCs) on proposals brought forward by National Health Service trusts for substantial developments or variations in services. In any major private finance initiative scheme, the views of CHCs will therefore have to be considered.
§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will review each NHS PFI bid where the projected number of specialty beds is less than currently provided for under existing facilities.[27]
§ Mr. MilburnAny private finance initiative proposal must have the full backing of its purchaser health authorities before it is approved. Purchasers must be 79W consulted so that they can satisfy themselves that a PFI scheme is affordable, is consistent with their healthcare strategies and represents the best way of meeting patient needs. The number and types of bed required will be one of the factors they will take into consideration. The local health authority must, in turn, consult the relevant Community Health Council—who represent the public interest in the health service—when any major service change, including major changes in bed numbers, is proposed by a trust.