HC Deb 17 May 1994 vol 243 cc404-5W
Mrs. Fyfe

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the advantages for the Scottish ambulance service of becoming a trust and the disadvantages of remaining as it is at present.

Mr. Stewart

[holding answer 13 May 1994]: In signifying an interest in trust status the Scottish ambulance service has indicated that this will allow it to make much faster progress towards the achievement of its four main objectives which are:

  1. (a) improving the quality of service to its patients;
  2. (b) improving relationships with health boards and NHS trusts as purchasers of ambulance services;
  3. (c) improving the motivation and ability of its staff to deliver better services;
  4. (d) achieving better value for money.

These advantages will be explained in more detail in the Scottish ambulance service trust application which is to be issued for public consultation on 18 May and a copy will be sent to the hon. Member.