§ 10. Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is the latest estimate of the current year deficits of the health authorities and health trusts in Wales; and what steps is he taking to ensure that they have adequate funds for 1999–2000. [78068]
§ Mr. MichaelWelsh health authorities and their trusts are currently forecasting an income and expenditure deficit of £21 million in 1998–99. Following the Comprehensive Spending Review, I announced an additional £1 billion for the NHS over the three years from 1999–2000. £175 million of this is for next year. I am able to add to this some £65 million from funds being carried forward from the current year and following careful consideration of previous spending plans. Of the £240 million thus available720W in 1999–2000, health authorities will receive a cash increase of £168 million, including £134 million for hospital and community health services. This is additional to £18 million waiting lists funding now being made recurrent.
Following the transfer of functions, this issue will be a matter for the National Assembly.