§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what guidance he issues to health authorities on the circumstances in which they can contract for treatment with private hospitals.
§ Mr. Nicholas BennettThis is a matter for individual health authorities to determine in the light of their responsibilities to identify the health care needs of local residents, and then arrange for these needs to be met. Collaborative ventures between the NHS and private hospitals have always existed and advice has been issued on standard formats including health authority contracts with the private sector.