HC Deb 30 June 1949 vol 466 cc1506-7
41. Mr. Gammans

asked the Minister of Health what fee may be offered in the county of Middlesex to a specialist who, in the opinion of a senior medical officer of a hospital should be called in to advise on a difficult case.

Mr. Bevan

A consultant called in exceptionally to a hospital administered by a board with whom he has no contract may be paid a fee of five guineas and travelling expenses.

Mr. Gammans

Would the right hon. Gentleman say if any representations have been made to him that the fee now permissible is considerably less than what was paid when these hospitals came under the Middlesex County Council, and for that reason it is not easy to persuade specialists to take up this work?

Mr. Bevan

No. As a general rule there are sufficient experienced consultants attached to the Board without having to go outside, and no difficulty is experienced in getting consultants from outside.