§ Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes taking to reform the present system of payment to dentists working within the Health Act, whereby some of them are able by dishonest means to earn exceptionally high salaries.
§ Mr. MaclayThe Royal Commission on the Remuneration of Doctors and Dentists had no doubt that the items of service method of payment should continue, but it recommended the setting up of a Dental Rates Study Group to fix timings and determine gross fees. These and the other recommendations in the Commission's Report are being discussed with the British Dental Association. While I believe that the system of payment can be improved on these lines, I have no evidence that dishonesty occurs to any material extent or that the Regulations governing the General Dental Service in Scotland do not contain adequate safeguards to prevent abuse.