§ Mr. David MartinTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what has been the change in the number of(a) district health authorities and (b) regional health authorities since March 1991; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaloneIn March 1991, there were 189 district health authorities and 14 regional health authorities. The numbers are now 110 and eight respectively.
This is part of our programme for achieving more effective health authorities, linking primary and secondary care, streamlining management structures and improving the health of the population.