HC Deb 15 June 1982 vol 25 cc260-1W
Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the date of his talks with regional health authorities about financing salary increases in the National Health Service referred to in his answer to the hon.

Member for Crewe (Mrs. Dunwoody) on 6 April, Official Report, c. 820; and what subjects were discussed at the meeting.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

The meeting to which the hon. Gentleman refers was one of our regular meetings with chairmen of all regional health authorities, which took place on Tuesday 16 March. As usual our discussions ranged widely over matters important to the NHS and included pay, public expenditure and the scope for improving efficiency in the service. We also discussed matters relating to the organisation of Whitley machinery, and the membership of regional health authorities. My right hon. Friend also introduced to chairmen Sir Derek Rayner who is advising us on the establishment of scrutinies along the lines of those already carried out in the Civil Service.