HC Deb 19 May 2003 vol 405 cc604-5W
Dr. Francis

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what discussions he has had with the Welsh Assembly Government on his proposals for foundation hospitals, with particular reference to(a) staff recruitment, (b) pay levels and (c) other cross-border issues. [113190]

Mr. Hutton

As is normal Government practice, the devolved Administrations are consulted in the development of policy and the introduction of legislation.

Mr. Dobson

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the estimated patient electorates are of each of the hospital trusts he has authorised to proceed with application for foundation status. [114517]

Mr. Hutton

Subject to legislation, an application will not be able to go forward without the approval of the Secretary of State. As part of the second stage of the application process, applicants for national health service foundation trust status will set out proposals for the size and composition of their membership community. Applicants will need to show how they will ensure that the full range of stakeholders' interests are represented, with a proper balance between different interest groups within the membership.