§ Dr. FoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has made about the exemption of health visitors from congestion charges in London. [24584]
§ Mr. HuttonWhile supportive of the need to reduce congestion in central London and the resultant benefits to Londoners' health, a number of concerns have been raised with the mayor and Transport for London regarding the impact the congestion charging scheme will have on the ability of the NHS to provide high quality patient care.
The London Regional Office of the Department has been working closely with Transport for London on developing a reimbursement scheme for a number of categories of staff, including health visitors and staff providing community based services, so that they are not disadvantaged in any way. The scheme is currently out for consultation until the 18 January 2002.