§ Mr. ChopeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer of 15 January (ref. 84461), for what reason primary care trusts need to supplement the national expenditure programme on promoting consumption of fruit and vegetables. [92008]
§ Ms Blears[holding answer 20 January 2003]One of the roles of a primary care trust is to improve the health of their communities. This requires them to take the lead on public health issues in their area, develop health improvement and modernisation programmes based on health needs, and integrate service planning and health promotion. Their public health role encompasses, for example, smoking cessation, teenage pregnancy and healthy eating.
By 2004, primary care trusts will be managing up to 75 per cent. of the total national health service budget. They will use the money to commission services to meet the needs of their local population, which may include projects to increase fruit and vegetable consumption.
§ Mr. Ben ChapmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what criteria are applied in the selection of non-executive directors of PCTs. [92124]
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§ Mr. LammyDetails of the qualities required of all primary care trust non-executive directors have been placed in the Library. In addition, particular attributes can be sought for individual vacancies, to ensure that the board has an appropriate mix of skills and experience.