§ Mr. AmessTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if it is the Government's intention that the support of a primary care group and its constituent general practitioners will be required by the Secretary of State before he approves its progression to primary care trust status. [108870]
§ Mr. DenhamEach application for Primary Care Trust (PCT) status will be carefully considered against the national criteria published in Health Service Circular `FISC 1999/167'. This guidance makes clear that those wishing to form PCTs should demonstrate broad local70W support and include the relevant Primary Care Group, constituent general practitioners, community and practice nurses, other clinical professional staff and partner organisations in their consultations.