§ Sir J. MacLeodasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the special difficulties of general medical practitioners in the Highlands and Islands; and what action he proposes to take.
§ Mr. NobleYes. As an immediate measure, I have increased the net income yardstick for assessing the inducement payments for general practitioners in the Highlands and Islands remote areas from £2,170 to £2,400 with effect from 1st January last. I have also agreed with the British Medical Association that I should appoint a small committee, on which the profession will be represented, with the following terms of reference
To consider the arrangements for the provision of general medical services in the Highlands and Islands within the framework of the health services generally, and to make recommendations.I am glad to be able to inform the House that Mr. Harald Leslie, C.B.E., Q.C., Sheriff of Caithness and Sutherland, Orkney and Zetland, has accepted appointment as Chairman of the Committee. I will announce the names of the other members as soon as possible.