Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, how many hospitals in England provide office space to Unison representatives; and what rental charges are paid in each case.

The Department does not hold the information requested. Trade union representatives are entitled to time off to enable them to carry out their trade union duties or to take part in union training.

It is important that, where possible, employers make available to union representatives the facilities necessary for them to fulfil their duties, and to communicate effectively with their members. Section 25 of the NHS Terms and Conditions of Service (Agenda for Change) sets out that where resources permit, the facilities for recognised trade unions should include the use of dedicated office space.