Medical Education

HC Deb 13 April 1970 vol 799 cc1003-4

14. Mr. Wiggin

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action he now proposes to take on the recommendations of the Todd Report.

Mr. Crossman

Action is being taken to increase the annual entry of pre-clinical students to our medical schools to 3,700 by 1975 in accordance with the statement I made on 14th April, 1969. I am awaiting the final views of the profession on the main recommendations about postgraduate medical education.—{Vol. 781, c. 806–10.]

Mr. Wiggin

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the implications in this report for the recently qualified student and his possible status? Would he give an assurance that he will consult either the students' organisations or at least young doctors before taking further action on this report?

Mr. Crossman

I am aware that there is deep controversy inside the medical profession on this issue. I hope that the controversy will be resolved by the medical profession.

Mr. Maurice Macmillan

Has the right hon. Gentleman consulted the general practitioners and/or the medical students' associations, particularly on the effect of the Todd recommendations on the length of training and earnings during training?

Mr. Crossman

I am in consultation with the medical profession on these issues, although not specifically with any organisation of junior doctors.