§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Wales to whom the local family practitioner committees are responsible in relation to the appointments of general 162W practitioners, and the definition of redefinition of the area of a practice and to whom appeals can be made against decisions taken by such a committee; and if he has powers to overrule such decisions.
§ Mr. Barry JonesResponsibility for filling a practice vacancy rests with the Medical Practices Committee. Delineation and classification of a practice area is also determined by that committee on the advice of the family practitioner committee, which consults the local medical committee. An unsuccessful applicant for a practice vacancy in Wales has the right of appeal to my right hon. and learned Friend and he can direct the Medical Practices Committee to grant the application either unconditionally or subject to such conditions as may be specified.
§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the relationship between his Department and the Medical Practices Committee in London in relation to the appointment of general practitioners in Wales; and when a Minister at the Welsh Office last met the committee.
§ Mr. Barry JonesThe Medical Practices Committee, which includes a member from Wales, is appointed by the Secretary of State for Social Services in consultation with my right hon. and learned Friend. Among its responsibilities it has the task of deciding practice appointments. As a result, appeals can come to my right hon. and learned Friend from individual practitioners. It has not been the practice for Ministers to meet the Committee.