HC Deb 26 October 1954 vol 531 cc1733-4
6. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that certain medical practitioners are taking assistants into partnership on payment of an agreed sum of money in compensation; and what action he will take to put an end to this practice.

Commander Galbraith

My right hon. Friend is not aware of any cases of this kind. The purchase or sale of any part of the goodwill of a general medical practice in the National Health Service is an offence, and if the hon. Member has evidence of any such transactions he should report them so that prosecution may be considered.

Mr. Rankin

I thank the right hon. and gallant Gentleman for that answer, which I hope will receive publicity, because this practice does exist. I have no particulars, and I do not know how widespread the practice is, but I hope that I can depend upon the Department to do its bit. I shall do my bit.