Clause 164
Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Bill
7:00 pm
John Pugh (Shadow Minister, Health; Southport, Liberal Democrat)
I beg to move amendment No. 234, in clause 164, page 118, line 10, at end insert—
‘(c) on any disagreements between the Trust and the Local Involvement Network or a Local Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee.’.
I am aware that Members selflessly give up their lunch as part of their duties during Committee. I am reluctant to have them give up their dinner as well, so I shall be very brief.
The clause states that primary care trusts must produce a report on the consultation that they have carried out and the influence that it has had on commissioning. The amendment suggests that, as part of this, they highlight any major disagreements between the overview and scrutiny committee and the PCT, and between the PCT and the LINKs.
The amendment was tabled because that is precisely what they would be most reluctant to do, but precisely where the areas of concern would be, and where consultation would have failed.
Having examined my amendment, I must say that I wish I had included the word “significant”, because as it is drafted at the moment, it would seem to force them to list almost any disagreement of whatever type. Therefore, if it helps, I will pre-emptively withdraw the amendment. However, if the Minister wishes to respond, we will hear him out.
Christopher Chope (Christchurch, Conservative)
I must propose the question, in case the Minister wishes to respond. Does the Minister wish to respond?
Mr. Woolas indicated dissent.