§ Mr. Parkasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, in view of the latest increase in the cost of petrol, and the differences in terms and conditions of similar staff within the reorganised health service, if she will expedite the comprehensive review of mileage allowances; and if she will make a statement on when she expects to propose changes in the allowances.
§ Mr. Alec JonesMileage allowances for staff in the National Health Service are negotiated in the General Whitley Council. The council has recently reached agreement on new rates effective from 18th November 1974 that take account of rising petrol prices, and health authorities have been notified. Staff who transferred from the previous local authorities in April have the option of retaining the allowance rates they received at the time of their transfer, or receiving the new Whitley Council rates. The General Whitley Council will continue to keep the allowances under review.