§ Mr. JackTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to increase the budget for the North West Lancashire Health Authority for 2000–01 to take account of the latest pay settlement for doctors and nurses. [106168]
§ Mr. DenhamThe 2000–01 unified allocation for North West Lancashire Health Authority is £345.28 million, which represents a cash increase of £21.95 million (6.79 per cent.).
The overall allocation will help fund the increased pay bill and other costs, such as health improvement programmes and reducing waiting lists. However, it is for health authorities, in partnership with National Health Service trusts, primary care groups, local authorities and the local stakeholders, to determine how best to use their funds to meet national and local priorities for improving health and modernising services. The significant additional resources available will aid them in this process.