§ Ann ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what investigations are carried out into the backgrounds of foreign doctors, with particular reference to previous human rights violations, prior to employment by the NHS, and if he will make a statement. [8731]
§ Mr. MilburnNo routine investigations are carried out into the background of foreign doctors specifically in respect of previous human rights violations. However, such doctors are subject to a number of checks as part of immigration control and prior to registration with the General Medical Council and employment within the National Health Service. If as a result of these investigations doubts were raised in relation to possible human rights violations, these would be pursued.