§ 50 Clause 29, line 24, leave Out ("or approval")
§ Baroness CumberlegeMy Lords, I beg to move that the House do agree with the Commons in their Amendment No. 50. Amendments Nos. 50 to 53 were tabled in response to concerns expressed by the profession and have the support of the BMA. They make clear that health authorities will nominate doctors to fill sole practitioner vacancies, and will approve doctors to fill partnership vacancies. This reflects the policy, to be enshrined in regulations, that candidates for appointment to GP partnerships should be selected by the practice. I hope that your Lordships will support the amendments. I commend them to the House.
Moved, That the House do agree with the Commons in their Amendment No.50.—(Baroness Cumberlege.)
§ Baroness HaymanMy Lords, we support these amendments. There has been concern in this area over the years. We are moving towards a situation whereby we shall be able to make better appointments and safeguard the quality of service being offered to patients in general practice. We therefore very much welcome these amendments.
§ On Question, Motion agreed to.