§ Mr. Jim MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) if he will make a statement on(a) his plans to export Northern Ireland health care and related services abroad and (b) the likely effect of these plans on health care services in the Province:
(2) if he will make a statement on the implications for hospital services in Belfast of the proposal to export Northern Ireland health and related services abroad;
(3) if he will make a statement on the likely effects on nurses training within Northern Ireland of the plans to market health care services abroad.
§ Mr. Needham[holding answer 9 November 1988]: Last year's feasibility study by United Medical Enterprises suggested that considerable potential exists in Northern Ireland for the export of health care services. A more detailed follow-up study is now being carried out aimed at matching available resources and expertise to identified markets outside the Province. Since this study will not be completed until February, the information requested is not yet available.
Our objectives are clear however and include the creation of jobs, and the provision of increased experience for those working in the Health Service thus broadening
1986 as at 30 September 1987 Number Whole time equivalent Number Whole time equivalent Clwyd 674 395 777 460 Dyfed 824 349 863 392 Gwent 1,367 648 1,466 672 Gwynedd 696 278 702 294 Mid Glamorgan 2,049 942 2,198 1,004 Powys 374 124 374 122 South Glamorgan 943 400 942 412 West Glamorgan 945 543 849 543 Note: Figures exclude home help organizers and assistant and trainee home help organisers.
326Wtheir horizons and enhancing their existing skills. The generation of additional income will benefit services in Northern Ireland.