§ Mrs. EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will issue instructions to hospitals that normal BT call charges should apply to all payphones within their hospitals. [76149]
§ Mr. DenhamNone. The provision of a telephone service for use by patients and visitors, including the choice of provider, is a matter for individual trusts. Detailed guidance on the setting of fees and charges by National Health Service trusts is contained in Her Majesty's Treasury publication "The Fees and Charges Guide". Where a service is to be provided by a third party, trusts should ensure best value both for the hospital and the user by seeking tenders from potential operators.