§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how much extra he estimates area health authorities will have to pay to staff working on 29 July; if he will make extra funds available for this purpose; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinIt is estimated that the total extra cost to regional health authorities, area health authorities and boards of governors in England as a consequence of the attendance of essential staff on the day of the Royal Wedding is £15 million.
Health authority cash limits will not be increased. The extra costs for one day have to be put in the context of the £7,600 million revenue which will be spent by health authorities this year. I have no doubt that the beneficial effect of the boost to morale occasioned by the Royal Wedding will more than offset any extra financial cost.