Written questions

NHS: Standards

Commons · Question 101604 · Tabled 18 Dec 2025 · Department of Health and Social Care · Official record

Answered 20 Feb 2026

Question

Asked by Joe Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of Activity Management Plans issued by NHS Integrated Care Boards and their impact on the NHS’ adherence with its constitutional access standards and patient choice rule

Answer

Answered by Karin Smyth, 20 Feb 2026

Integrated care boards (ICBs) have existing contractual powers to manage activity by providers, which were enhanced in 2025/26 with central support for setting and managing activity. The NHS Standard Contract includes the ability to set Indicative Activit...