HC Deb 15 January 1996 vol 269 cc344-5W
Mr. Fatchett

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what has been the cost so far of producing and distributing "NHS Magazine"; how much has been raised from advertising; and if he will make a statement. [8921]

Mr. Horam

The national health service executive is reducing the volume of publications issued and targeting printed communications more precisely to ensure resources are used to best effect. As a result of a review of publications, the executive ceased production of six NHS newsletters, making an estimated annual saving of £227,000. The executive is also seeking a more cost-effective approach, supporting the costs of the "NHS Magazine" with advertising.

"NHS Magazine" acts as a vehicle for sharing best practice within the NHS. It also carries the most up to date quarterly data about NHS performance, helping to ensure that the service remains properly accountable to those it serves.

Production costs/gross revenues broken down by issue are:

Issue 1 £ Issue 2 £ Issue 3 £
Production
(Editorial/photography/design/reproduction, print) 41,886 43,914 50,486
Advertising revenue 10,900 16,850 30,500

Distribution costs for the first three issues were £17,664.