§ Mr. WrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he is putting forward to seek a reduction in the hours of work for junior doctors.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe Scottish Home and Health Department instructed health boards in 1983 to eliminate regular rota commitments of one night on duty in two and, where practicable, to aim for a maximum commitment of one night in three or better. Surveys carried out by SHHD in 1983 and 1985 indicated that there had been a reduction in rotas more onerous than one in three from 449 (13.8 per cent.) to 340 (11 per cent.). SHHD is collecting similar data for 30 September this year and will participate in national discussions with the British Medical Association on juniors' hours which are to be held soon.