HC Deb 21 June 1990 vol 174 c690W
28. Mr. Stevens

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he has received any expressions of interest from hospitals wishing to become self-governing trusts in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Needham

Formal applications to become a self-governing trust can be invited only after Parliament has approved the necessary Northern Ireland legislation. However, to date the following have expressed an interest in exploring the implications of self-governing status:

  1. 1. Downe Hospital, Downpatrick
  2. 2. The Royal Group of Hospitals
  3. 3. The Ulster, North Down and Ards Hospitals Unit of Management.
  4. 4. Craigavon Area Hospital Group

The management executive for the health and personal social services will be discussing expressions of interest with the hospitals concerned with a view to identifying which candidates should be encouraged to develop formal business plans.