§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what action she plans to take to control the level of fees to management consultants paid by NHS trusts.
§ Mr. MaloneThe employment of consultants is a matter for local rather than national decision. To assist health authorities and trusts to achieve best value for money, the Department published comprehensive guidance—EL(94)78—this on the use of consultants, entitled "The Procurement and Management of Consultants within the NHS". This guidance included an indication of the range of fee rates that might be reasonable depending on the skill levels required. Copies of guidance will be placed in the Library.