§ Mr. Hickmetasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, pursuant to his reply of 11 February, Official Report, column 72, on what basis information relating to the income derived by individual doctors or practices from dispensing National Health Service prescriptions is confidential; if he will make it his policy to publish such information with the consent of the individuals or practices concerned; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeGeneral medical practioners are independent contractors to the National Health Service. Our policy has always been that no information about individuals or practices incomes will be made available without their consent. Perhaps my hon. Friend could seek this information from the practice concerned.