HC Deb 30 March 1994 vol 240 c882W
Mr. Shersby

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what difficulties are being experienced in hospitals in the Hillingdon area in appointing suitable candidates to fill consultant posts in orthopaedics; what steps she is taking to increase the number of doctors qualifying in this specialty; and if she will make a statement.

Dr. Mawhinney

At the last review of trauma and orthopaedics by the joint planning advisory committee—JPAC—in February 1993, the senior registrar national target was increased from 181 to 210 posts, and the career registrar national target from 153 to 202 posts. We are confident that all these posts will be funded within the target timescales. This should increase the number of suitable candidates to fill consultant vacancies.

My hon. Friend may wish to consult the chairmen of national health service trusts in Hillingdon for local details.