§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what recent reports he has received on the availability of medical services in the armed forces; and what advice he has received on increasing their availability; [136008]
(2) if he will make a statement on trends in the availability of medical services in the armed forces over the last three years. [136007]
§ Ms StuartDefence Medical Services (DMS) is responsible for providing medical services in the armed forces. The Department of Health is aware of the report issued by the Ministry of Defence in December 1998 entitled, "Defence Medical Services: A Strategy for the Future" which explained that there are serious workforce shortages in DMS.
At present workforce levels are stabilising and the MOD are exploring new ways of meeting the regular and reserve medical manpower requirements. This work is being undertaken in close consultation with the Department and the National Health Service. For example, the NHS will in future be including DMS' requirements in medical student numbers.
The future strategy for DMS identified a gap at the higher 'strategic' level and closer links have now been established between the MOD and Department with NHS representatives being appointed to the two DMS top management boards. To supplement this activity and to direct work a Joint Steering Group has been established by the MOD and Department with the Scottish Executive and the Welsh Office also represented.