§ Mr. Welshasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the total amount paid by the Scottish Rural Practice Fund in each year since 1970; and what criteria are used as the basis of eligibility and calculation for payment.
§ Mr. William RossThe total amounts paid out each year since 1970 were as follows:
1969–70 £548,000 1970–71 £687,000 1971–72 £721,000 1972–73 £758,000 1973–74 £788,000 1974–75 £885,000 The basis of eligibility and method of calculation are set out in the statement of fees and allowances payable to general medical practitioners in Scotland, which has been agreed with the profession. Briefly, the fund is shared among health boards on the basis of low population density and relative difficulties of transit in each board's area. These factors are measured in "patient units of mileage" according to an agreed scale. Local 451W schemes, which require the prior approval of the Scottish Rural Practices Fund Committee, may be made to take account of the special circumstances of particular areas.