§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what actions he proposes to take in respect of his White Paper on the health service published on 13 November, in respect of(a) legislation, (b) adjustment of methods on formulae relating to distribution of resources between health authorities and (c) recruitment and training of more doctors and nurses. [4550]
§ Mr. Malone"A Service with Ambitions", the White Paper on the national health service published on 13 November, reaffirms the Government's commitment to the NHS on the basis of its founding principles. It launches three nationally-led development programmes on information, professional development and managing for quality in the NHS. These programmes will aim to refine and improve existing policies, ensuring they are part of a coherent strategy, and to identify ways of overcoming practical obstacles to progress.
In addition to the publication of the White Paper, the Government will be introducing a Bill to take forward the proposals in "Choice and Opportunity" this Session, keeping the formulae used to inform the allocation of resources to health authorities under continual review, supporting medical work force planning, and supporting the commissioning of non-medical education and training 410W through consortia and regional education and development groups. Nurse training commissions are expected to rise 14 per cent. in 1996–97.