§ Mr. W. Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to prevent over-prescribing by doctors; how many doctors have been formally warned of this practice in the last two years; and if he will publish any evidence of over-prescribing in his possession.
§ Mr. NobleInformation about prescribing costs and guidance about prescribing are regularly issued to all general practitioners, and local medical committees are provided with the information necessary to enable them to keep a watch on excessive prescribing. During the last two years 19 doctors have been formally warned by their Executive Council and 13 have had remuneration withheld. Information on prescribing costs is published annually in the Report on Health and Welfare Services and in Scottish Health Statistics.