§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many community health councils have made representations to his Department opposing the Government's White Paper "Working for Patients"; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorWe have received a number of representations from community health councils. These generally welcome the proposals in the White Paper aimed at enhancing standards of patient care. Some express support for other proposals or raise questions on specific issues. I regret that it is not possible to quantify the representations in the way the hon. Member requests.
§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether his proposals for medical audit announced in "Working for Patients" will be extended to professional groups other than doctors; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Mellor[holding answer 19 July 1989]: Obviously in the care of the patient a number of professions are involved and it is important that work on developing audit measures is complementary. Whilst "Working for Patients" focused mainly on the care and treatment provided by doctors, work to establish audit in other health professions is taking place. For example, an important part of the Department's project "Making Best Use of Nursing Skills" is concerned with developing a nursing audit package.