Written question asked by Ed Davey (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 7 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 21 February 2005. It was answered by Stephen Ladyman (Labour) on Monday, 21 February 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what guidance he gave to the Merton, Sutton and Mid-Surrey NHS Trust during the recent consultation Better Healthcare Closer to Home, with particular reference to (a) publicising the consultation within the catchment area and (b) definition of the catchment area; and what guidance is available for NHS trusts performing similar consultations on each aspect area.

Answer: Mr. Edward Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance he gave to the Merton, Sutton and Mid-Surrey NHS Trust during the recent consultation Better Healthcare Closer to Home, with particular reference to (a) publicising the consultation within the catchment area and (b) definition of the catchment area; and what guidance is available for NHS trusts performing similar consultations on each aspect area. [215787] Dr. Ladyman: The Department has issued general guidance to the national health service on changes to services to support Sections 7 and 11 of the Health and Social Care Act 2001. Overview and Scrutiny of Health--guidance to support consultation with overview and scrutiny committees was issued in May 2003. Strengthening Accountability--policy and practice guidance on public consultation and involvement was issued in February 2003. Keeping the NHS local: a new direction of travel-- guidance on the principles and approach which should be applied to all proposed service change was issued in February 2003.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 215787; 431 c307W;431 c306-7W
Session: 2004-05
Subjects: Health services Greater London Publications NHS trusts Public participation Standards Sutton Merton
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk