HC Deb 27 October 1997 vol 299 c760W
Mr. Norman

To ask the Secretary of State of Health what steps he took to consult NHS trusts before issuing his instructions to hold board meetings in public. [12797]

Mr. Milburn

In reaching his decision, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health took account of the fact that all health authorities and a significant proportion of national health service trusts already hold board meetings in public.

Mr. Norman

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received from NHS trust boards following his instructions to hold board meetings in public; and if he will publish the content of these submissions. [12796]

Mr. Milburn

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health has received a number of letters about trust board meetings, both in favour and against. It is for those making the representations to decide whether they should be published.