§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is his Department's policy towards NHS trusts introducing car parking charges on hospital sites; and if he will make a statement. [39313]
§ Mr. MilburnWhether or not to charge for parking is a matter for hospitals to decide in the light of local circumstances—for example the space available for car parking and the location of the hospital. Where charges are introduced patients who are eligible to claim reimbursement of travelling expenses under the hospital travel costs scheme may have the charges reimbursed. Good practice guidance on the wider issues surrounding car parking in the National Health Service has been issued to all trusts in Health Facilities Note 21. Copies have been placed in the Library.