§ Mr. Alexander Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with the medical profession regarding the implementation of the hospital family planning service; and when will he issue further guidance to health boards on this matter, including the availability of additional funds.
§ Mr. William RossGuidance on the organisation and remuneration of family planning work undertaken in hospitals was given to health boards on 1st September 1975 after full consultation with the medical profession; and additional guidance was issued on 26th February after further consultation with the profession.
The date from which the new arrangements can be implemented and the rate at which the hospital family planning service can be developed in each area are matters for the health board to decide, in 409W the light of available resources and in discussion with the consultants concerned.
Some additional funds have been made available to health boards on a recurring basis in the financial year 1975–76 and these funds, although not specifically allocated for that purpose, will help boards to make a start in implementing the new arrangements.