§ Ms. LynneTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will make a statement on the working of the new dentists' contract.
§ Dr. MawhinneyThe new dental contract, introduced in October 1990, is the first major change to NHS dentistry since 1948. It encourages preventive dentistry and provides all round continuing care. Benefits to patients include treatment plans, emergency cover and repair and replacement of certain restorations free of charge.
§ Mr. Bill MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what progress has been made on the review of national health service dentistry; and what assessment she has made of the effect of the proposed fee levels on the number of dentists remaining within the national health service.
§ Dr. MawhinneyWe are not yet able to say how the review of dental remuneration to which we are committed will be carried forward. The level of dental fees in 1992–93 is a matter for the dental rates study group which will meet shortly.