§ Mrs. Margaret EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied with the adequacy of the existing arrangements for joint planning between health boards and local authorities; and if he has any plans to make joint planning between health boards and local authorities a statutory requirement, as provided for in section 5 of the National Health Service (Amendment) Act 1986.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythWe are satisfied that the existing voluntary arrangements for joint planning as revised in April 1985 provide a suitable framework and that generally boards are making progress in preparing and implementing joint plans. My right hon. and learned Friend has no plans at present to introduce mandatory arrangements. We are, however, closely monitoring progress on the preparation of joint plans, and health boards are aware of the need to complete outstanding plans as quickly as possible.