§ Mr. Jim Lesterasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what orders have been made under Section 15 of the National Health Service Reorganisation Act 1973; when these orders expire; what discussions he has had with the teaching hospitals concerned; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EnnalsThe only order made under Section 15 of the National Health Service Reorganisation Act 1973 was the National Health Service (Preservation of Boards of Governors) Order 1974. This order is due to expire on 22nd February 1979. Following a series of informal discussions during 1976 and 1977, I recently met representatives of a wide range of98W interests, including the specialist postgraduate teaching hospitals, to discuss the future management of the hospitals. Within the next few months I intend to produce a consultative document setting out possible management arrangements. I shall not take final decisions until I have consulted all the interested parties.