HC Deb 09 November 1989 vol 159 cc749-50W
Mr. Redmond

To ask the Secretary of State for Health when he will be giving the budget figures for hospitals wishing to opt out.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

NHS trusts will remain an integral part of the NHS. In common with other NHS units, they will derive the majority of their revenue income from contracts with health authorities and GP practice budget holders to provide services for NHS patients. In addition they will be able to borrow money both from the Government and private sector, subject to an external financing limit which will be set for each trust and reviewed annually. Each trust will be expected to frame its budget so as to remain within its external financing limit.

Mr. Hardy

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the total sum spent in securing the implementation of the health services Bill to date; and what is his estimate of the sum which will be spent for this purpose before this measure is enacted.

Mr. Freeman

The Government announced on 11 May 1989 that £82 million has been allocated in 1989–90 for implementing the proposals contained in the White Paper "Working for Patients". By no means all of the proposals will require legislation, but for those that do we shall seek a Bill at the earliest opportunity. Future levels of support will be announced shortly.

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