§ Mr. Wrayasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last discussed with the British Medical Association Scottish universities teaching medical staff the requirements and functioning of medical teaching and training in the light of the new demands of primary care and patient treatment; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythMy right hon. and learned Friend has had no meetings with the British Medical Association or representatives of the Scottish universities to discuss teaching and training. From time to time, he has informal meetings with representatives of these bodies at which many subjects are discussed and officials of my Department meet regularly postgraduate medical deans to discuss matters of mutual interest.
The undergraduate curriculum in medical schools is a matter for the universities to determine taking account of guidance issued from time to time by the General Medical Council. The Joint Committee on Postgraduate Training for General Practitioners has a similar responsibility for the standards of postgraduate training and these bodies will be well aware of the demands facing the medical profession.