HC Deb 02 April 1998 vol 309 cc647-8W
Mr. Hoyle

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if NHS trust boards have to endorse proposals to merge NHS trusts; and what powers they have to block these proposals. [37400]

Mr. Milburn

It is for Ministers, not National Health Service trusts, to decide whether or not trusts should merge. Full public consultation will be held on any such proposals.

Mr. Hoyle

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance he has given to hospital trusts on their obligation to inform hon. Members of the(a) amalgamation and (b) closer integration on NHS trusts. [37397]

Mr. Milburn

Any proposals for mergers between National Health Service trusts or for substantial changes to services are subject to full public consultation which as a matter of course will include those hon. Members whose constituents are affected by the changes.

Mr. Hoyle

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what are the procedures for the reappointment of NHS trust board members when mergers between trusts occur. [37398]

Mr. Milburn

Serving non-executive directors of merging National Health Service trusts may be considered for appointment to the merged body alongside other candidates. All appointments are made on merit and in accordance with the Department's published procedures, copies of which are in the Library.