asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions his Department has had with the British United Provident Association, American Medical International, or other companies, with regard to the role in future health care of private medicine; and if it is his intention to encourage the growth of private medicine.

Both Ministers and officials have had a number of informal discussions with BUPA, American Medical International and other independent medical interests. My hon. Friend the Minister of State for Health also has regular meetings with the Joint Liaison Committee for Independent Health Care, which comprises representatives of three private sector organisations—the Registered Nursing Homes Association, the Independent Hospital Group and the Association of Independent Hospitals. These discussions have covered a wide range of issues on the role of the private sector in the provision of health care. It is my intention to encourage the private sector to meet a larger share of the nation's health care needs, including the training of staff.