GPs are in the best position to know the unique needs and service requirements of their patients.

Mr. Charles Walker (Broxbourne) (Con): Does my right hon. and learned Friend agree that GPs are probably in the best position to know what the unique needs of their patients are?

Mr. Clarke: I do. The best general practices in this country are among the best features of the NHS. I would argue that there is a wide variation in quality, but the best family doctors are in the best position to have a big influence on the development of the service and are greatly trusted by their patients. The best of the younger ones are mad keen to get on with things. I am always pleasantly surprised by the entrepreneurial spirit and the desire to improve things that one finds among the best GPs. That is why 96 per cent. have signed up to the idea of GP practice-based budgeting.

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