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Hospital Trusts (Essex)

I am sure that it was not just the hon. Gentleman's departure that led to what has happened. Having served with him on the Health Committee, I know of the great interest that he takes in health matters. It is and will remain our policy for patients to have full choice across the national health service. We want to see the regular publication of higher-quality data, and that is at the heart of the new regulation regime that will be introduced next year. We have also introduced NHS Choices. If more patients choose to use Southend, that is their choice, and Southend will of course be paid accordingly by the necessary commissioners.