HC Deb 18 March 1963 vol 674 cc22-3
29. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Minister of Health what is the present gross annual pay of the average general practitioner in the National Health Service.

Mr. Braine

The latest available figure is about £3.750 for 1960–61.

Mr. Pavitt

Has not the Parliamentary Secretary given the gross and not the net? Is not the net nearer £2,500? Is the Minister aware that the coming discussions with the Prime Minister on the question of the Review Body's recommendations should bear in mind that those concerned are more interested in time and facilities than, perhaps, in questions of pay? Will he also bear in mind that there are very few people who are on the average and that there is need to bring down the number on the lists?

Mr. Braine

if the hon. Gentleman will look again at his Question he will see that it asks for the present gross annual pay. Therefore I did not give him any net figure. If he wants that he must put down a Question in some other form. I understand that my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said last Thursday that the advice of the Review Body will be published when he makes his promised statement shortly, and I do think that we can wait until then.

Mr. K. Robinson

When discussions take place with the profession following the announcement of Government policy on this matter, will the Minister look into the question of the method of allocating practice expenses? Is he not aware that the present method acts as a disincentive to those general practitioners who want to give proper facilities and a good standard of service to their patients?

Mr. Braine

I am afraid that I have nothing further to say. I think that it would be most unwise to say anything until my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has made his statement.