§ Mrs. Virginia Bottomleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what response he intends to give to the report on medical equipment by the Advisory Council for Applied Research and Development; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Norman FowlerThe Government's response to the Council's report is being published today. I am placing copies in the Library.
We welcome the report as a valuable contribution to consideration of the British medical equipment industry's long-term prospects. Its recommendations will help to serve the dual interests of patients in the National Health Service and of the industry.
Our response makes clear our existing strong commitment, through measures in a variety of fields, to the support of the industry. This is exemplified by the wide-ranging programme of actions for the National Health Service announced on 15 December 1986 and designed to develop a strong, internationally competitive health-care industry in the United Kingdom. The response also outlines the further measures we shall be taking as a result of the report.
234WWhile we accept that the National Health Service has an important part to play as the major purchaser of medical equipment in this country, I should emphasise the scope that exists for British industry to assist the service in the achievement of increased efficiency and value for money, and the provision of improved care. By meeting a higher proportion of the service's needs the industry has an opportunity to build a firmer base for exports. It will have our full support in doing so.