§ 21. Dr. D. Johnsonasked the Minister of Health what representation he has received from the profession with regard to his proposals for distributing the £500,000 per year set aside for the payment of merit awards to general practitioners.
§ Mr. PowellThe profession have not yet reached a decision on the Joint Working Party's proposals.
§ Dr. JohnsonIs my right hon. Friend aware, however, that there are distinct antagonistic reactions starting again to this proposal? Does he not agree that this is a unique instance of a profession being offered money and not wanting it? Does not this situation appeal to his economic frame of mind? Alternatively, perhaps he could give the money to the nurses.
§ Mr. PowellThese arrangements require the agreement of the profession before they can be brought into effect, but I think that it would be wrong for me to comment while the profession is considering them.