§ Mr. Michael Forsythasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is satisfied with the standard of provision of ancillary services in the National Health Service; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth Clarke[pursuant to the reply, 29 November, c. 576]: I am satisfied with the general standard of these services although there are no doubt occasions, in an organisation as large as the !National Health Service, when they fall below the high standard required. Our policy of competitive tendering will help to ensure that these services are provided as efficiently and economically as possible, whilst maintaining standards, which are specified in tender documents.