§ Mr. Robert Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if the committees of inquiry into the efficiency of the National Health Service will be serviced by private consultants; whether contracts will be awarded after competitive tender; and what is the estimated cost of such contracts.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeIt is for Mr. Griffiths and his team to determine what assistance they need to complete their task. They can call on the services of private consultants, if they so wish. They have not yet decided whether to do so but, if they do, such contracts will be awarded in accordance with the Governement's code of practice.