HC Deb 31 July 1984 vol 65 c134W
Sir Philip Holland

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what new factor in 1984 has necessitated the establishment of a clinical engineering and medical physical services advisory committee; and what functions it performs that were previously unnecessary.

Mr. Chris Patten

The need for this committee was identified some time ago, but it was only earlier this year that it proved possible to secure the agreement of all parties to its role and composition. It provides the Department of Health and Social Services for the first time with a single authoritative source of advice on the planning and provision of these complex multi-disciplinary services.