HC Deb 24 June 1963 vol 679 cc920-1
5. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Minister of Health if he will introduce regulations to govern the deputising arrangements of general practitioners.

Mr. Powell

There are such regulations already.

Mr. Pavitt

Is the Minister aware that these regulations are totally inadequate? Does he recall that, out of 2,391 general practitioners in London, 1,211 are contracting out? Is he aware that recently there were only five patrolling doctors in charge of London for the whole of one night? In view of these facts, is it not time that he reorganised the system of payment to general practitioners so that we could do away with this fiction of their being paid for 24 hours when many of them are not?

Mr. Powell

Under the existing regulations, executive councils have to be satisfied that the deputising services are adequate, and I have no doubt that executive councils are discharging their duties.

Mr. Pavitt

Will the Minister have a further look at this matter and consult his working parties? Is it not time for a complete overhaul of these regulations?

Mr. Powell

The regulations were made last October, but I am always ready to learn from executive councils how they are working.