Consultants (Hansard, 21 June 1993)

Ms Primaraolo
To ask the Secretary of State for Health what were the numbers of(a) consultants in neonatology and (b) neo-natal intensive care beds in each of the last five years.

§ Mr. Sackville
The available information is shown in the tables.
Consultant neonatologists are not identified separately in the Department's census of medical staff, but are included under paediatrics.

Consultants employed during the past 5 years England (whole-time equivalent) 30 September 1987 to 1991.

Year Paediatrics

1987 571.5

1988 597.2

1989 678.8

1990 699.1

1991 723.0

28W

Neo-natal cots in regionally designated intensive care wards and non-maternity wards.

Year Cots

1987–88 3,567

1988–89 3,512

1989–90 3,451

1990–91 3,374

1991–92 3,424

Note:—Figures include cots used for various levels of care; from the most intensive level for seriously ill babies to special care—which is needed for babies who need attention exceeding normal routine care.

§ Ms Primarolo
To ask the Secretary of State for Health, pursuant to his answer of 18 March,Official Report, column 347, what is the mean age at which doctors achieve consultant status in England.

§ Dr. Mawhinney
The mean age of consultants appointed during the year ending 30 September 1991 in England was 39.

Consultants employed during the past 5 years England (whole-time equivalent) 30 September 1987 to 1991.
Year	Paediatrics
1987	571.5
1988	597.2
1989	678.8
1990	699.1
1991	723.0

Neo-natal cots in regionally designated intensive care wards and non-maternity wards.
Year	Cots
1987–88	3,567
1988–89	3,512
1989–90	3,451
1990–91	3,374
1991–92	3,424