§ 17. Mr. Russell Kerrasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will establish new health centres in poor areas; whether he will introduce a new incentive scheme for medical staff willing to work in such areas; and whether he is yet able to make a statement outlining his plans for the expansion of health centres throughout the Province.
§ Mr. ChannonEvery encouragement is being given to medical practitioners who wish to practise from health centres and by March, 1975 it is expected that half the doctors in Northern Ireland will do so.
§ Mr. KerrIn this connection, has the hon. Gentleman seen the impressive sociological report prepared by Professor Peter Townsend? Which of the recommendations in that valuable report will he commend to the House, and when will they be implemented?
§ Mr. ChannonI have seen the report, which is being studied now. I am not in a position today to tell the House the outcome of those investigations.