§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether he will call for a report from the chairman of Leeds Western health authority on the proposal for Leeds general infirmary to opt out; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyNo. The decision on whether or not to prepare a formal application for NHS trust status is a matter for the sponsors of the expression of interest in the unit concerned. There is no question of any hospital "opting-out" of the NHS.