§ Tim LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many doctors have been(a) disciplined and(b) sacked for (i) drug-taking offences and (ii) stealing medical drugs in each year since 1997.[24305]
§ Mr. Hutton[holding answer 8 January 2002]: The Department does not routinely collect information regarding the disciplinary proceedings carried out in national health service organisations. Disciplinary action is a matter for local employers. NHS employers have a responsibility to investigate alleged breaches of acceptable standards by staff, and to consider whether any disciplinary action is required as a result of such allegations.