§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what current procedures are in force concerning an appeal against dismissal, by a health board, of a consultant-surgeon; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThere are two avenues of appeal to the Secretary of State which are available to an NHS consultant dismissed by a health board. One, which is open only to senior medical and dental staff, is that set out under paragraph 190 of their terms and conditions of service. Under this the doctor remains suspended from duty until the appeal process is completed. The other procedure, which is open to all NHS staff, is that set out under section 40 of the general Whitley council agreements. This is normally invoked after dismissal has taken effect.