§ Mr. Joel Barnettasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many 289W representations he has received about charges of 35p and more being made for private sick notes by doctors registered under the National Health Service; what action he is proposing to take; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AlisonVery few. The amount charged for private certificates is entirely a matter for agreement between doctors and their patients; but the British Medical Association issues guidance to its members from time to time on the recommended level of charges. The Government have encouraged employers and others to keep their demands for private certificates to a minimum.