§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will satisfy himself that all possible economies are made in the organisation of the Northern Ireland Health and Social Services Council; and if he will make a statement about its work.
§ Mr. John PattenI am satisfied that the council is organised in an effective and economical manner. It provides advice to the Department of Health and Social Services on the exercise of its functions in relation to health and personal social services, and keeps under review the development and co-ordination of the health and social services in Northern Ireland. A copy of the council's annual report to 31 Decembser 1980 has been placed in the Library.
The membership of the council is drawn from the health and social services boards, the main caring professions, the universities, the trade union movement and consumer interests.