§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer in what way the relaxation of leasing agreements will be applied to the provision of equipment or materials within the national health service; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PortilloProvided that the great majority of the risk stays with the private sector, the capital value of the leased asset will not count against the health authority's allocation or trust's external financing limits. In the past this provision has been restricted to leases satisfying a short term need. It will continue to be necessary to demonstrate the value for money of leasing as opposed to purchase.