HC Deb 31 July 1974 vol 878 c400W
Dr. Reginald Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for the Social Services what steps she intends to take in view of the financial stringencies now prevailing in the National Health Service, and whether these include proposing to increase the funds or reduce the services to the patients.

Dr. Owen

My right hon. Friend has already indicated that, subject to the requirements of general economic policy, additional sums will be made available to health authorities as the need arises in the light of experience of price rises. This will ensure that services to patients need not be reduced in order to accommodate increases in prices.

Sir Edward Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will state the value of that part of the stamp which is used for funding the National Health Service.

Mr. O'Malley

The amount of the NHS contribution which is collected with the flat-rate national insurance contribution is as follows:

and whether she will seek to expedite this consideration in view of the urgency of the development.

Dr. Owen

The regional health authority is awaiting the decision of the Tendring District Council on its planning application.