§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps his Department takes to secure the advantages of large-scale purchasing power in respect of National Health Service services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe Health Service Supply Council was set up by the Government in 1980 with the specific task of helping the NHS make better use of its supply resources. The council regularly issues specific advice to health authorities on the steps that should be taken to take advantage of the NHS's purchasing power to attain value for money. The council's progress is recorded in its annual reports, copies of which are held in the Library of the House.