Harrow clinical commissioning group (CCG) could see its £42 million debt wiped out as part of a proposed merger between eight bodies in north-west London.

Mark Easton, accountable officer for the eight CCGs in the region, explained that the new single unit could start with a “clean balance sheet” if approved by NHS England.

He said this would be an advantage for those in Harrow since it has a significant deficit, while bringing that onto a new structure could “cause problems”.

Whatever the decision of the NHS – which, Mr Easton noted, has been “quite forgiving of historic debt” in the past – he said representatives in Harrow would still have to work “within their means”.

There are plans to merge the eight CCGs in north-west London into a single body in either April 2020 or April 2021.

Mr Easton said this will lead to greater heath equality across the region, streamline decision-making processes, eliminate differing costs and strengthen ties between the CCG and other bodies, including local councils.

He explained that there has been integrated work between the various CCGs over the past 18 months which gave an insight into future workings and should ease the transition.

He added that he expects there to be the “same levels” of scrutiny and transparency as there is currently.

The proposed change – which is expected to reduce overall running costs in the region – needs to be approved by several groups.

Local governing bodies must give it the green light before north-west London’s 400 GP members vote on the plans. If this is passed, the decision needs to be approved by NHS England.