§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Lord President of the Council what representations he has received from the General Medical Council concerning an increase in its membership; and if he will take steps to consult interested bodies prior to making any response.
§ Mr. WakehamThe Privy Council has recently received an application from the General Medical Council proposing the addition of four elected members (one for Scotland, and three for England) and of a fifth to be appointed by the faculty of occupational health. Following the addition last year of two extra appointed lay members, these proposals would restore the size of the majority of elected members, which is required by the Medical Act, approximately to that which existed before. The GMC has consulted a wide range of bodies representing the profession on these proposals, and the 365W Privy Council will consider what further consultations, outside the profession, are desirable before a decision is reached.