HPA response to arm's-length bodies review

26 July 2010

Health Protection Agency response to the announcement by the Secretary of State for Health that HPA’s Functions are to be transferred to him.

Today's announcement by the Secretary of State that the Health Protection Agency's functions will be transferred to him as part of the creation of a new national public health service is consistent with the Conservative Party's green paper on public health published earlier this year. It reflects the importance of HPA's work, particularly in responding to significant incidents. The announcement makes it clear that the detailed implications of the change in HPA's status are still to be determined. We look forward to working with colleagues in the Department and having the opportunity to advise on how the Secretary of State's objectives can best be met while preserving the twin strengths of an integrated health protection service, and expert, evidence based independent scientific advice.

Liberating the NHS: Report of the arms'-length bodies review (external link)

Last reviewed: 26 July 2010