§ 38. Mr. Raceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will make a statement concerning the study that is being made into the possible replacement of the National Health Service by an insurance-funded scheme.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinAs I have made clear—[Vol. 977, c. 462–3.]—I believe that we should examine features of insurance-based health systems to see what advantages they offer over the National Health Service, for example allowing greater patient choice and flexibility. In addition, there are some deficiencies in the NHS, such as excessive waiting lists, which are not found in482W countries whose health services are financed through insurance. I have therefore asked officials in the Department to look at the experience of other countries with developed health services, though this study is as yet at a very early stage. Any radical change in the basis of financing the NHS must depend upon very careful assessment of all the advantages and disadvantages, and would have to be the subject of widespread public discussion and consultation. I do not anticipate putting early proposals forward.