HC Deb 10 January 2002 vol 377 cc1003-4W
Dr. Fox

To ask the Secretary of State for Health on what basis the authorities invited to bid for the phase III pathology modernisation programme were selected. [24447]

Mr. Hutton

Through our pathology modernisation programme, the Department is considering the appropriate model for pathology services in the light of "Shifting the Balance of Power" and the proposed changes to national health service structures under the NHS Reform and Health Care Professions Bill. Therefore, the aim of pathology modernisation funding in 2001–02 is to support up to four larger reconfiguration projects exploring the development of managed clinical networks in NHS pathology services, covering a population of 1.5 million. This year it was essential to support areas that were already advanced in planning for modernised pathology services. It was clear from existing work on the programme that 12 areas met this criterion, and they were invited to bid through a limited tender exercise