§ Mr. BoyceTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will make a statement on the Government's proposals for specialist training and accreditation.
§ Dr. MawhinneyA working group was established last year by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State to consider the current system of specialist medical training in this country in the light of the European Community medical directives. The group has completed its work and presented its report. This makes wide-ranging recommendations which, if implemented, would have major implications for the way in which we train our doctors and provide health care to patients in national health service hospitals. We have, therefore, decided to seek the widest64W possible range of views on the recommendations before any decisions are reached. The report is being issued today for consultation. Copies will be placed in the Library.