§ Mr. Andrew TurnerTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether continuity of epidemiological data will be maintained for areas which were health authorities before the latest reorganisation. [28210]
§ Mr. HuttonInformation needs in the light of the current re-organisation are currently being considered. Continuity of data will be an issue but it will also be important to provide data at operational levels of the new organisation where responsibilities will lie and decisions be made.
From later this year primary care trusts will be taking on the majority of functions of existing health authorities and will be the focal point locally for improving the health of the community, securing high quality services and integrating health and social care locally. Data at this level will therefore be the main priority.