HC Deb 09 May 1972 vol 836 cc305-6W
49. Mr. Raison

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he can now state when he expects to announce his plans for the reorganisation of the National Health Service.

Sir K. Joseph

I expect to publish a White Paper in the summer.

64. Mr. Booth

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what provision for district offices will be made within the reorganisation of the National Health Service; and what criteria will be used in determining the siting of the offices.

Sir K. Joseph

Provision will be made as appropriate by area health authorities for the offices needed for district management. It will primarily be for these authorities to decide where such offices should be sited having regard to the pattern of health services and the availability of accommodation.

78. Mr. Booth

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what provisions have been made for the consultation with organisations representing staff who will be affected by the proposed changes in the administration of the National Health Service.

Sir K. Joseph

I have made arrangements for regular consultation with the Staff Side of the General Whitley Council.

Mr. Booth

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what is his policy regarding the maximum population to be served by a regional health authority as a result of the proposed reorganisation of the National Health Service;

(2) what is his policy regarding the maximum area to be covered by a regional health authority as a result of the proposed reorganisation of the National Health Service;

(3) what is his policy regarding the maximum population to be served by an area health authority as a result of the proposed reorganisation of the National Health Service;

(4) what is his policy regarding the maximum area to be served by an area health authority as a result of the proposed reorganisation of the National Health Service.

Sir K. Joseph

It would be inappropriate to specify a maximum population or area, since other factors are important. Health areas will be within the same size range as the new local government non-metropolitan counties and metropolitan districts. Regions will be based on the present hospital planning regions, subject to adjustments which I shall announce shortly.