HC Deb 19 May 1969 vol 784 cc22-3
12. Mr. Fortescue

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the average net remuneration before tax of National Health Service dentists in the latest year for which figures are available in the age brackets 25 to 35 years, 35 to 45 years, 45 to 55 years and 55 to 65 years, respectively.

Mr. Crossman

I will, with permission, circulate the figures in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Fortescue

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that, with the possible exception of the oldest profession in the world, there is no other profession the remuneration of which steadily declines as the professor gets older? Will he have urgent discussions with the British Dental Association and other representatives of the dental profession to amend this state of affairs?

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Gentleman must put down a Question on the first part of his supplementary question.

Mr. Crossman

The hon. Gentleman would be advised to study the figures to be published in HANSARD before he jumps to any dangerous conclusions.

Following are the figures:

AVERAGE NET REMUNERATION OF PRINCIPALS PROVIDING GENERAL DENTAL SERVICES IN THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1966–67
Age Average net remuneration
£
Under 35 years 4,143
35–44 years 3,893
45–54 years 3,134
55–64 years 1,868

Note;

These figures are estimates based on a sample of single-handed practitioners who during 1966–67 did not employ an assistant dental surgeon.