§ Mr. Steeleasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has for reviewing the administrative structure of the health services in Scotland.
§ Mr. RossI have decided that the time has come to undertake a thorough examination of the administrative structure of the health services in Scotland in order to ensure that it is adequate to ensure the most effective development of these services in future. In the course of this examination I shall seek the views of the associations representing local authority, professional and other interests; and I should propose in due course to publish my tentative proposals as a basis for wider public discussion.
In carrying out this enquiry I shall keep in close touch with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, who yesterday announced his intention of reviewing the administrative structure of the medical and related services for which he is responsible. Like my right hon. Friend I shall be concerned only with the administrative pattern, and there is no question of considering any switch in financing from the public to the private sector.
The proposals which emerge from this review will, I hope, be ready for consideration along with the recommendations of the Royal Commission which is at present considering the structure of local government in Scotland. I have informed the Royal Commission of my intentions, and the Royal Commission on Medical Education has also been told what is proposed.—[Vol. 753, c. 643–4.]