§ Mr. George HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what his policy is on the re-engagement of retired employees at Ashworth Special Hospital to vacant posts at the establishment; [123555]
(2) what his policy is on employees of Ashworth Special Hospital and the statutory retirement age; and if he will make a statement. [123556]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonMembers of staff who have retired from Ashworth Hospital are not re-employed into substantive positions.
In common with other National Health Service organisations, employees who have retired at Ashworth are not formally re-employed. However, there are occasions when retired staff can return to work at the hospital on a 'temporary basis'.