§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans she has to stop NHS trusts entering into contracts with private contractors to provide very long-term care for elderly patients.
§ Mr. BowisNone. The national health service has always contracted with private contractors. It is the responsibility of health authorities to arrange and fund continuing health care. We issued guidance to health authorities on their responsibilities for meeting continuing care needs on 23 February, copies of which are available in the Library.