§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what discussion has taken place regarding the proposal for the Wakefield health authority's mental health unit to have self-governing status; and when;
(2) what he regards as constituting an expression of interest in self-governing status for hospitals and National Health Service units;
(3) what response has been received from (a) Wakefield community health council, (b) Wakefield branch of MIND, (c) Wakefield branch of MENCAP, (d) West Yorkshire branch of the National Schizophrenia Fellowship and (e) Wakefield family practitioner committee to the proposal for Wakefield health authority's mental health unit to have self-governing status.
388W(4) who has been consulted regarding the proposal for Wakefield health authority's mental health unit to have self-governing status.
§ Mr. MellorExpressions of interest in self-governing status are no more than that. These range from detailed proposals to brief letters registering interest. It would be unrealistic to require consultation at this stage, before people have enough information to make an informed decision. Those with an interest will have an opportunity to express their views at a later stage if those expressing interest decide to proceed with an application.