§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions he has had with health authorities concerning their entering partnership schemes with private health companies; in what spheres he considers it might be feasible for health authorities to enter into such schemes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. VaughanThe Department will shortly be consulting health authorities on a draft circular which will encourage 447W increased co-operation between the NHS and the private sector, and set out revised guidance on contractual arrangements. It will be for the health authorities to decide in what spheres such co-operation would benefit the NHS in their area, but I am keen that health authorities should explore all the possibilities.