Please click on the links below to download a letter inviting comment, which sets out the key features of the Regulations along with an overview and specific questions for consultation, and the draft Regulations.
IMPORTANT: The original version of the accompanying letter below, published on 16th December 2003, contained some minor errors: Question 9 should have refered to regulation 17 not 14; question 10 should have refered to regulation 20 not 17; and question 11 should have refered to regulation 28 not 25. All other references were accurate. The references in the amended version below have now been corrected.
The Department of Health is pleased to launch a consultation on the draft regulatory framework that will underpin a reformed NHS complaints procedure. We would welcome comments from anyone who has an interest in improving the complaints procedure.The formal consultation period will run from 1 January until 31 March 2004. If you have comments on the Regulations or responses to the specific consultation questions, please send them to

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