To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what communication he has received from Greater Glasgow south-west local health council concerning the local health council scheme submitted to him by Greater Glasgow health board; what consideration he has given to the issues raised; and if he will make a statement.

The local health council wrote to me on 20 December asking me to ensure that Greater Glasgow health board was aware of the need for a strong local voice on the NHS. This point is well understood by the board, which has submitted a scheme for restructuring local health councils in their area. This is being considered.