§ 142. Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will review the criteria for eligibility for financial support to general practitioners who practice in less densely populated country areas.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythFinancial support for general practitioners who practice in less densely populated country areas is provided through the long-standing and well-targeted Scottish rural practices fund. In addition, on 11 December 1989, my right hon. and learned Friend said that he intended to fulfil the undertaking given in chapter 10 of "Working for Patients" by funding, on a long-term basis, a further scheme to safeguard the position of such doctors. Details of this scheme, which is to be administered by the Scottish rural practices fund committee, will be set out shortly in an amendment to the statement of fees and allowances.