To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the impact on Portsmouth and South East Hampshire health authority of the structural reforms proposed for the NHS; and if he will make a statement.

With effect from 1 April 2002, the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and South East Hampshire health authority (the Isle of Wight and Portsmouth and South East Hampshire health authorities were merged in April 2001) will become part of the larger Hampshire and Isle of Wight health authority. Subject to the decision of Parliament, this will become one of 28 new strategic health authorities in October 2002.

These changes are part of our drive to shift the balance of power to the front line in the national health service. Under them, the responsibilities of the current regional offices of the Department will be devolved to the new health authorities, and those of the current health authorities to primary care trusts.