HC Deb 17 January 1994 vol 235 cc392-3W
Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will set out the terms of reference for the review of the role and functions of the NHS estates; and when she expects the review to be completed.

Mr. Sackville

The terms of reference, including the time scale, for the review of the national health service estates agency are as follows.

REVIEW OF THE NHS ESTATES AGENCY

Terms of Reference

I. To carry out a review of the NHS Estates Agency by the end of June 1994, by

1. evaluating the following:

  1. (a) the appropriateness of the aims and objectives of the agency
  2. (b) the agency's performance in meeting its targets
  3. (c) the appropriateness of the delegations available to the agency
  4. (d) the efficiency and economy of the agency's internal operations, including its personnel, management and financial systems
  5. (e) the impact of agency status on the agency's activities in relation to the Department of Health and its Ministers
  6. (f) the impact of agency status on the agency's and Department's relationship with Parliament and the public;

2. reconsidering the prior options for the status of the agency;

3. depending on the outcome of 1 and 2 above, revising the agency's framework document as appropriate.

II. to report to Ministers according to the agreed timetable, consulting the Office of Public Services and Science and the Treasury as necessary.