Clause 41 - Standards set by Secretary of State
Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Bill
8:55 am
Mr David Lammy (Parliamentary Secretary, Department of Health; Tottenham, Labour)
Let me make some progress and I will explain why.
Broadly, the amendments would extend the Secretary of State's standard-setting role and CHAI's various review and investigation functions to Wales and England, including the annual review, other reviews and investigations, co-ordination of those reviews and the power to require explanations.
The hon. Gentleman has forgotten that the National Assembly for Wales is responsible for health care in Wales. Clause 66 confers similar functions on the Assembly, as it is important for the Assembly's drive to improve the health of the Welsh people by ensuring that health priorities specific to Wales are addressed and monitored locally.