§ 32. Mr. Ian Lloydasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if his Department will investigate the possible savings that could be made in the National Health Service by inviting tenders from private caterers for the supply of foods to patients in private wards in London teaching hospitals.
§ Mr. DeakinsNo. The charges for private patient care include an element for the cost of food, but special food not required on medical grounds may be paid for separately. It is for health authorities to determine in the light of local circumstances how suitable meals can most economically be provided to patients.