HC Deb 20 January 1948 vol 446 cc17-8W
Sir E. Graham-Little

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the average number of panel patients on an individual doctor's list under the conditions of the National Insurance Act is 1,000 and the regulation limit 2,500; that his proposal circulated to all medical practitioners that the number of patients allowed to any one doctor under the Act may be expanded to 4,000, while he is also allowed to take private practice, will make it impossible to give any proper attention to patients; what consultations he had before making this proposal; and whether he will now reconsider it.

Mr. Bevan

The existing figures quoted do not include dependants of insured people or private practice. Anyhow, the hon. Member will be reassured to know that the figure of 4,000 was agreed with the profession's Negotiating Committee.