HL Deb 05 June 1995 vol 564 c85WA
Baroness Jeger

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How much has been paid in merit awards to NHS consultants in the last financial year for which figures are available compared to the previous year; who decides these awards; and how long do they last.

Baroness Cumberlege

Data on the precise costs of distinction awards paid to consultants in Great Britain in recent years are not available from financial returns. The estimated total cost of awards for 1994/95 is £109 million and in 1993/94 was £104 million. Awards are decided by the Advisory Committee on Distinction Awards. All awards granted since 1989 are subject to a five-yearly review.