§ Lord Colwynasked Her Majesty's Government:
Why, in view of their statement in the document Modernising NHS Dentistry that "in the past, it has been too easy for dentistry to be overlooked", the position of the Chief Dental Officer has become a part-time appointment. [HL3915]
Lord Hunt of Kings HealthInModernising NHS Dentistry: Implementing the NHS Plan, the Government recognise that dentistry needs to be made a higher priority across the whole National Health Service. I am delighted that Dame Margaret Seward has joined the NHS Executive to help with that. During her time as Chief Dental Officer, Dame Margaret will concentrate specifically on the dental strategy and will provide an experienced and expert focus for a wider team implementing the measures that the strategy contains. I have every confidence in Dame Margaret's ability to make a significant contribution to its success.