§ Mr. Altonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans he has to reduce spending on the purchase of National Health Service supplies.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeWe set up the Health Service Supply Council in 1980 with the specific task of helping the NHS make better use of its supply resources. Guidance issued by the council to health authorities has included new supply arrangements for 62 products with a potential saving of £60 million from an estimated annual spend of £1,000 million. The introduction of these arrangements has provided savings so far at an annual rate of £10 million. The council's progress is recorded in its annual reports, copies of which are held in the Library.