§ Mrs. Ewingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the machinery for controlling the merit award system for consultants in the medical profession; how much of the funds for this purpose derive from Government; what is the total paid from Government funds in past years; and what was the original 33W agreement reached by the Government with regard to these awards.
§ Mr. EnnalsThe distinction awards system was introduced at the outset of the National Health Service, following the recommendations of an Inter-Departmental Committee (the Spens Committee) which were accepted by the Government of the day. A committee under the chairmanship of Lord Platt advises the Secretary of State for Scotland and my right hon. Friend which consultants should receive awards. All funds for this purpose derive from the Government, but since these awards are part of remuneration and the amount drawn depends upon the nature of the individual contract, information about the total expenditure in past years is not readily available.