§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) if he will consider recognising the diploma of medical secretaries as a basis for proficiency awards;
(2) if he has any plans to introduce a separate salary scale for medical secretaries;
(3) what are the current pay scales for each area health authority for medical secretaries.
§ Mr. MellorPay and conditions of service for medical secretaries in the NHS are matters for negotiation in the administrative and clerical staffs Whitley council. Medical secretaries are employed in various grades with basic annual pay scales for adults ranging from £5,059 to £9,440. London weighting of up to £1,267 is payable in addition. The grading of posts, according to their particular responsibilities, is a matter for individual employing authorities. Additional allowances of up to £667 may be payable for tested proficiency in typing, shorthand and audio skills. The qualifications recognised for automatic entitlement to proficiency allowances which do not include the diploma of the Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Administrators and Receptionists are also determined by the Whitley council. Negotiations are continuing in the council on proposals for changes in the pay and grading structures of all administrative and clerical staff.
§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how much each health authority paid in the latest year for which figures are available in agencies fees for personnel to cover medical secretary duties.
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§ Mr. MellorWe do not hold this information centrally.