§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many consultants who served on regional consultants and specialist committees receive merit awards on their retirement; and what percentage this is of all consultants serving on such committees.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyThis information is not available centrally. The Government's White Paper "Working for Patients" proposes a number of reforms to the distinction awards system, including a proposal aimed at preventing awards being given close to retirement age. This is currently under discussion with the profession.