219.Sections 26 and 27 give effect to the intention, set out in The new NHS and in Putting Patients First, to extend the duty of partnership set out in section 22 of the 1977 Act.
220.Section 26 introduces for the first time an explicit duty of co-operation between bodies within the NHS, making clear the intention that Health Authorities, NHS trusts and Primary Care Trusts are expected to work together.
221.Section 27 extends the duty of partnership in section 22 of the 1977 Act between the NHS and local authorities to secure and advance the health and welfare of the people of England and Wales, to cover Primary Care Trusts and NHS trusts as well as Health Authorities and Special Health Authorities. This recognises the need to work in partnership in commissioning and delivering care, as well as at the strategic planning level. Welfare is used in its wide general sense and is designed to cover functions relating to social services, education, housing and the environment.
Commentary on Sections Schedule 2 Sections 26 and 27: Co-operation between NHS bodies and local authorities