HC Deb 01 November 1990 vol 178 cc685-6W
Mr. Harry Barnes

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the work of the income generation unit; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Dorrell

The unit's role is to formulate national policy on income generation; to provide a source of advice on this for health authorities and the private sector; to assist health authorities to develop and implement projects, monitor their achievements, and disseminate information and good practice.

I am pleased to report that income generation activity raised £26.8 million for the NHS in 1989–90 and it is expected that £50 million will be raised in 1990–91. The initial top target of £75 million is therefore well in sight. These substantial sums of money are making a significant contribution to improving the care offered to patients by the NHS.