§ Mr. Ian TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans she has to issue a code of practice for private ambulance operators.
§ Mr. SackvilleA code of practice for private ambulance operators has been published today. Copies will be placed in the Library. The code sets out minimum standards in a range of important operational areas including staff selection and training, vehicles, equipment and telecommunications. It will provide valuable guidance for purchasers in judging the quality of potential providers against the high standards set by national health service ambulance services, as well as giving private providers clear indicators of the standard of service acceptable to the national health service.