Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health, with reference to the judgment of 21 November 2014 by Mr Justice Popplewell on NHS England's compliance with the Health and Social Care Act 2012, what guidance he plans to give to NHS England on their obligation to consult patients; if he will introduce mandatory public consultation training; and if he will make a statement.

The Mandate to NHS England sets out the Government’s commitment to supporting improved outcomes for patients, including by responding to their needs and preferences. We also expect NHS England to meet its obligations under the Health and Social Care Act 2012.

It is for NHS England to decide what training and guidance is required to ensure that commissioners involve patients appropriately in decisions.