§ 41. Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will report on progress towards industrial democracy in the National Health Service.
§ Mr. EnnalsThe proposals on industrial democracy which were contained in the Government's consultative document "Democracy in the National Health Service" have been discussed with representatives of appropriate staff and management. No conclusions have yet been reached, but discussions continue on the basis of these and the proposals put forward by such bodies as the British Medical Association and the Trades Union Congress health services committee. It is difficult to make rapid progress in such a complex matter, but I believe that the continuing consultations in which we are engaged are the best way forward to secure the most suitable arrangements for industrial democracy in the National Health Service.