HC Deb 30 July 1956 vol 557 cc915-6
43. Mr. Osborne

asked the Minister of Health the average net earnings of a general medical practitioner in the National Health Service; what they were in 1939; and by what percentage they have risen.

Mr. Turton

The present average net earnings of a general medical practitioner after meeting his practice expenses are £2,222 a year. The corresponding figure for 1939 was £938 and the percentage increase is therefore 136.9 per cent.

Mr. Osborne

Would my right hon. Friend not agree that as money has fallen to one-third of its purchasing power since 1939, doctors are therefore no better off in real purchasing power than at that-time? Secondly, would he not agree that those working in rural areas, who are "on tap" seven days a week, fully earn what they get?

Mr. Turton

I certainly agree that doctors working in both rural and urban areas deserve well of the community.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Will the right hon. Gentleman admit that but for the difficult economic circumstances of the country, he would consider that the doctors have a good case for an increase?

Mr. Turton

My reply to the claim was on the basis that in present circumstances it would not be right to give consideration to a claim for a general increase in remuneration.

Dr. Summerskill

How does the Minister reconcile that Answer with the recommendations of the Spens Committee?

Mr. Turton

The Spens Committee did not lay down any contractual obligation in this matter. It based its recommendation on what should be the level at which doctors entered the National Health Service.