§ Mrs. BeckettTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many doctors under notice of dismissal are awaiting appeal to her; and for how long they have been waiting. [20620]
§ Mr. MaloneDoctors subject to paragraph 190 of the national health service terms and conditions of service may appeal to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health if they consider that their appointment has been unfairly terminated for reasons other than personal misconduct. Appeals are determined by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State in the light of advice from a professional committee. Six appeals are awaiting determination: four were lodged within the last 12 months, one in June 1993 and one in September 1993.