§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health ( 1 ) what guidance is issued to health trusts on the necessity for consultation with the public; and if he will make a statement; [35980]
(2) what courses of action are open to members of the public in circumstances where a health trust declines to attend a public meeting to discuss changes in health care and its provision; and if he will make a statement; [35981]
(3) what courses of action are open to members of the public if a health trust refuses to meet them to discuss changes in the level and provision of local health care; and if he will make a statement; [35982]
(4) what guidelines are issued by his Department on the need for, and the extent of, consultation with patients about changes in availability or quality of health care and its delivery; and if he will make a statement. [35983]
§ Mr. HoramIt is for health authorities to assess the health needs of their population and purchase services to meet those needs. Where substantial changes in services are proposed, the health authority is required to consult with its local community health council. If the CHC objects to the resultant proposal, it is normally referred to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health for a final decision—regarding English HA proposals. Members of the public of course have the opportunity to put their views forward to the CHC. Copies of relevant guidance are in the Library.