§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services how many consultants are currently in receipt of merit awards; what has been the total cost of merit awards per year since 1979; and what are the criteria for awarding pensionable increases in salary levels as merit awards.
§ Mrs. CurrieThe number of consultants and community physicians in receipt of distinction awards on 31 December 1987 in England and Wales was 5,604.
The total cost of distinction awards authorised for each year since 1979 is as follows (figures are from 1 April in each year).
£ million 1979 20 1980 29 1981 31.1 1982 33.5 1983 37.1 1984 40.8 1985 45.5 1986 50.8 1987 56.5 The actual amount payable in each year is somewhat less, because part-time practitioners receive a proportion of the award only. In 1987, we estimated that some 86.3 per cent, of the authorised maximum payment was payable. Once awarded, distinction awards become part of salary and are therefore superannuable.