§ Mr. Dobsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, pursuant to his answer of 1 May, Official Report, column 176, to what factors he attributes the decline in the use of ambulance services by non-NHS patients since 1975.
§ Mr. John PattenSome of the reduction in the total of non-National Health Service patient journeys since 1975 is attributable to social services departments and educational departments making alternative transport arrangements, including the provision of their own transport. In addition, it seems likely that the increase in the number of private ambulance services and voluntary bodies transporting private patients has had an influence.
§ Mr. Dobsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he exercises any controls over the establishment, staffing and standards of private ambulance services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenNo; it is for the customers and particularly their professional advisers to ensure that the service for which they are paying is able to provide the facilities and meet the standards required.