§ Mr. Alec Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Wales to what extent the use of private contractors has increased in the cleaning, laundry and maintenance services in National Health Service hospitals; and if he will make a statement of his policy in this matter.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsI know of no appreciable increase in the use of private contractors in the cleaning, laundry and maintenance services in the National Health Service in Wales. It is my policy to encourage health authorities to make more use of commercial contracts which, under properly controlled conditions, could lead to greater efficiency and free money for patient care.