§ Lorna FitzsimonsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what research he has commissioned into the running costs of NHS trusts, with particular reference to(a) cost and quality of service and (b) overheads, buildings and plant. [88390]
496W
§ Mr. DenhamNo research has been specifically commissioned into the running costs of National Health Service trusts.
There is no accepted definition for running costs of NHS trusts. The Department collects information from trusts on their management costs. This information is available from audited accounts and compiled in accordance with guidance issued by the NHS Executive. The definition of management costs has recently been tightened to ensure that all costs relating to clinical care are excluded, and all costs properly relating to management (including appropriate proportions of clinicians' time) are included.