§ Mrs. FyfeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (I) what plans he has to permit private health care companies or private hospitals to run national health service wards or specialist units; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what is his policy on partnership deals with the private sector to run either hospital units or departments within units.
§ Mr. Stewart[holding answer 4 May 1993]: Following my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer's statement to the House on 12 November, the Government have been encouraging the participation of private sector interests in the provision of public services. I welcome the utilisation of private finance in the national health service where this would provide improved standards of health 416W care for patients or an opportunity for cost savings to be allocated to other health care projects. It is for individual health bodies to consider specific projects.