Mr. Peter Lennon:

Head 7 provides for the nullification or cessation of provision of health services. It is designed to address the situation where, if a GP practice is closing down, there is a requirement to inform patients that that is happening. As members of the committee can understand, it is a long-term relationship with GPs and there is a considerable amount of information built up concerning the patient. Head 7 is there to address the situation that we feel is relevant. If a person's general practice is closing down they should be advised of that fact. Such patients should be afforded an opportunity to make alternative arrangements concerning another GP and what happens to their records.