§ Sandra GidleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to amend the National Health Service Act 1977; and if he will make a statement. [123455]
§ Mr. Hutton[holding answer 3 July 2003]: The NHS Act of 1977 has been amended on a number of occasions. The Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Bill, currently before the House, proposes to make further amendments. Power was taken under the NHS Reform and Health Care Professions Act 2002 to consolidate national health service legislation since 1977, and it is my intention that we will proceed with consolidation as soon as is feasible.