asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps he is taking to ensure that health authorities make a full and complete investigation of the credentials and previous experience of contractors, before awarding them hospital domestic cleaning or other contract; and if he will make a statement.

It is for health authorities to satisfy themselves of the suitability and competence of companies before inviting tenders from them. There is no need for districts to make copious enquiries of each contractor if regions have compiled lists of approved contractors for that region.