HC Deb 15 December 1960 vol 632 c582
19. Mr. C. Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what salary is paid to the Senior Medical Officer for St. Helena.

Mr. Iain Macleod

Up to £2,500 a year depending on qualifications and experience.

Mr. Hughes

Are there not difficulties in getting an experienced surgeon for this remote island? Has not the salary something to do with it? Will the right hon. Gentleman consider giving a higher starting salary to doctors who go there?

Mr. Macleod

I think that the salary has something to do with it. It was less than half this figure about two or three years ago. I believe that it is as a result of the offer of this amount that we have attracted a suitable candidate. I hope that he will go to the Colony early next year.