§ 83. Mr. John Wellsasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the number of whole-time equivalent persons employed by the Dental Estimates Board has risen by over 42 per cent., and the administrative cost of the Board has risen by over 100 per cent. since 1954, whereas the number of dental surgeons has increased by just over 10 per cent. in the same period; what are the reasons for this; and if he will seek to recruit more dental surgeons and to reduce the administrative costs of the Dental Estimates Board.
§ Mr. LoughlinYes. The number of courses of treatment received for authorisation of payment has increased by 108 per cent. since 1954 and fees paid to dentists have increased by 100 per cent.; the figures are evidence of the Board"s efficiency but my right hon. Friend will continue to look for any further administrative economies. To increase the supply of dentists generally, the number of places in dental schools has risen and is being further expanded.