§ Dr. Marekasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he is satisfied with the level of financial provision for the National Health Service in Wales and in Clwyd in particular; and if he will consider determining the level of financial provision for the National Health Service in Wales by means of a formula which takes greater account of the special conditions in the Principality.
§ Mr. John Stradling ThomasSince 1979 the National Health Service in Wales has received real growth in resources of over 9 per cent. This is a substantial achievement. Over the same period the Clwyd district health authority has received real growth of nearly 15 per cent. In the current financial year this authority received the largest growth margin of any in Wales as a result of the Government's commitment to equalise the relative funding of health authorities. My right hon. Friend and I are satisfied that the formula in use for assessing relative allocations is appropriate to the needs of Wales. It is reviewed regularly to ensure that it remains so.