§ Mr. Raisonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the timetable for implementing his proposals for unifying the National Health Service in England.
§ Sir K. JosephThe Government intend that the reorganisation of the National Health Service shall take effect in April, 1974, at the same time as the reorganisation of local government.
Total Percentage increase over 1962 Expenditure per head of population Total as percentage of gross national product ($m.) ($m.) Belgium … … … 3,431 + 96 356 16.5 France … … … 18,132 + 106 357 15.9 Germany … … … 24,427 + 72 406 16.5 Italy … … … 12,430 + 139 236 16.5 Luxembourg … … … 134 + 86 399 17.3 Netherlands … … … 4,414 + 170 347 17.5 United Kingdom (1968–69) … … … 12,770 + 75 229 12.4 I have no information as to how these figures are arrived at, but a footnote to the table states that the United Kingdom figures may not be fully comparable with Community figures.
412WI have received many constructive comments on my Consultative Document and I intend to have full discussions about them during the autumn. Firm decisions must then be taken, and I shall issue a White Paper announcing them. Meanwhile the detailed studies of management structures and of collaboration with local government are proceeding.