Could I ask the Minister just two questions on behalf of patients? I had a postcard today from someone whose mother was a Minister in your Lordships' House. She has had cancer twice, so values the skills of the NHS. I quote from the postcard. It states:
“I honestly believe patients will suffer if all services have to be put out to tender. This wastes valuable medical professional time and removes patient choice”.
I would like to ask the Minister, will patient choice be dispensed with? There are many concerned people. I hope their fears will be allayed tonight. The other question is: will this regulation become a gift to lawyers?
10 pm