HC Deb 06 April 1984 vol 57 cc689-91W
Mr. Meacher

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he now intends to publish the Binder Hamlyn report; and if he will make a statement.

1972 is given in the following table. Details of the grounds in each case could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

Mr. Fowler

The report I commissioned from the accountants, Binder Hamlyn, is concerned with the financial control of the family practitioner services. There are, however, a number of other major issues which need to be considered in relation to the development of primary health care over the next decade. The central problem is how to ensure the proper development of the family practitioner services to meet changing needs consistent both with our overall health strategy (including greater concentration on prevention and care in the community) and with our commitment to achieve best value for money.

There is a need for the Government to take a long-term look at this area. My intention therefore is to publish a Green Paper to stimulate an informed debate among the professions and the public about future primary health care needs. I expect to publish the Binder Hamlyn report at the same time as the Green Paper.