§ Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what is her latest estimate of the average annual income of British hospital consultants; and what are the equivalent figures for the other countries of the EEC;
(2) what is her latest estimate of the average annual income of British general practitioners; and what are the equivalent figures for the other countries of the EEC.
§ Dr. OwenAs from 1st April 1973, and in accordance with recommendations of the Review Body on Doctors' and Dentists' Remuneration whole-time National Health Service consultants have been paid on a scale £5,085-£7,599. About 35 per cent. of consultants also receive distinction awards, the present values of which are: A+£7,350; A £5,577; B £3,273; C £1,392.
In addition, consultants may receive fees for certain items of service. Part-time consultants receive an appropriate proportion of the whole-time salary and any distinction award that they hold, but may also practice privately.
For general medical practitioners, the review body recommended fees and allowances for 1973–74 intended to produce, an average net remuneration of £5,750 from executive council payments. General practitioners may receive remuneration from other sources also.
The Department does not have reliable information on average medical earnings in the EEC.
§ Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when she expects the negotiations for a new contract for hospital consultants to be completed.
§ Mrs. CastleAs I told the House during the debate on the Address on 15th March—[Vol. 870, c. 532.]—I have agreed to the British Medical Association's proposal for a joint working party to examine the problems of consultants. Its terms of reference are: —
To consider the terms upon which senior medical and dental staff are employed in the National Health Service in Great Britain including systems of remuneration (but not those matters which are within the remit of the Review Body on Doctors' and Dentists' 53W Remuneration) and arrangements for private practice; and to report ".The working party will be chaired by my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Health and will meet for the first time this week.I hope that its work—which will include a review of the consultant contract —will be completed as quickly as the importance and complexity of the problems allow.
§ Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when she intends to recognise the Regional Hospital Consultants and Specialists Association as well as the British Medical Association as also representing hospital consultants for purposes of negotiation with her Department.
§ Dr. OwenI would refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's reply to the hon. Member for Plymouth, Drake (Miss Fookes) on 26th March.—[Vol. 871. c. 259-60.]