42. Dr. Johnsonasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the strong feelings amongst general practitioners against any sort of differential payments scheme; and whether he will take full account of these in considering the recommendation of the Royal Commission on Doctors' Remuneration in this connection.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithUntil my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and I have fully studied the Report and its implications, it would be premature for me to comment on its recommendations.
Dr. JohnsonIs not my right hon. and learned Friend aware that there are very grave fears that any form of merit award for general practitioners will undermine the medical profession and destroy the doctor-patient relationship? Will my right hon. and learned Friend take the most serious account of such fears that have been expressed in many forms?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithIt will be our duty to take into account all relevant considerations when considering the recommendations of this Royal Commission.
§ Dr. SummerskillAs the Minister says that he and his right hon. Friend are now considering these recommendations, will he bear in mind very carefully the point raised by the hon. Member for Carlisle (Dr. Johnson) and, when the time comes, tell the House exactly the criteria which he intends to apply to a general practitioner whom he believes will merit this award?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithI will bear that in mind in common with other relevant 22 considerations. When we have had time fully to consider the report we propose to discuss it with the medical and dental professions. In those discussions and consultations, no doubt this subject, amongst others, will arise.