§ Ms JowellTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many specialist registrar posts there are in England and Wales for(a) oncology, (b) palliative care and (c) pathology; and how many of these posts are currently vacant. [1122]
§ Mr. MaloneThe phased introduction of the new specialist registrar grade commenced on 1 April 1996 in six specialties. Transition on oncology, palliative care and pathology commenced on 1 October 1996. Transition to the new grade in all specialties will be completed on 1 April 1997. The most recent census data-30 September 1995—do not include any information about the specialist registrar grade. The only available information relates to the previous grades for registrar.