HC Deb 24 October 1966 vol 734 c109W
79. Mr. Parker

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the total cost to the State of training a doctor; and whether he will take steps to see that doctors, when trained, either repay this sum if leaving the country, or practise here for at least three years.

Mr. Crosland

The average cost, on the basis of 1964–65 figures, is not less than £8,000. This sum does not include any element for capital or for the period before registration which a doctor must spend in an approved hospital post after leaving medical school. On the other hand, it includes the cost of research charged to university funds which is not at present separately identifiable but is substantial.

On the second part of the Question, I have nothing to add to what my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland said on this matter in reply to the Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Fife, West (Mr. William Hamilton) on 19th October.