§ 46. Mr. Mappasked the Minister of Health what proposal he has for encouraging additional medical practitioners to come to Oldham; and if he will make a statement.
§ Miss PittThere are no vacancies in existing practices in Oldham. Initial practice allowances may be paid to doctors wishing to start new single-handed practices there.
§ Mr. MappWill the hon. Lady, while noting that this is one of the most under-doctored parts of the country, be good enough to call for specific advice from her Medical Practices Committee to deal with this area in view of the extensive housing development that will be taking place?
§ Miss PittMy right hon. Friend has no power to direct doctors to this area, but the hon. Gentleman may like to know that Oldham is designated by the Medical Practices Committee as an area in which additional doctors are needed, and, further, that the initial practice allowances payable in such areas were substantially increased on 1st January this year and may be paid for four instead of three years.