HC Deb 09 February 1982 vol 17 cc336-7W
36. Mr. Mikardo

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will make a statement on the progress of talks with the European Economic Community Commission about the freedom of movement of overseas doctors registered in the United Kingdom.

Dr. Vaughan: W

We are in touch with the Commission and representatives of other member States about the matter, and I am not in a position to make a statement at this time.

39. Mr. Silverman

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he intends to take any steps to put the registration of overseas doctors who qualify outside the European Economic Community on the same basis as European Economic Community doctors and overseas doctors who qualify inside the European Economic Community.

Dr. Vaughan

No, Sir. The recognition of qualifications for registration is a matter for the General Medical Council, and while the Medical Qualifications (EEC Recognition) Order 1977 and subsequent amendments were introduced to meet our legal obligations under the Treaty of Rome and Community directives we have no plans further to limit the discretion of the GMC.