§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales on what basis he decides if there are sufficient people being trained to work as general medical practitioners in Wales and whether adequate resources are being invested by the Welsh Office in the training of medical personnel in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [22201]
§ Mr. HagueIt is the Government's policy to secure an adequate supply of appropriately trained doctors in each sector and specialty. This is achieved through advisory and planning mechanisms at a UK and Wales level.
The medical workforce standing advisory committee considers the longer-term need for doctors and for making recommendations on the intake of medical schools. In 1995, the committee recommended an increase of 11 per cent. in UK medical school intakes by 2000 to a total of 4,970. The Government have accepted that recommendation.
The Welsh Office is involved in UK work force planning through its representation on the Advisory Group on medical education and staffing. The advisory group is currently examining the issue of recruitment and retention of GPs. My officials also have regular discussions with professional educationalists in Wales to ensure that the provision of training for intending GPs is appropriate.
§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales on what dates(a) he (b) fellow Ministers at the Welsh Office met representatives of the Medical Practices Committee to discuss the adequacy of the number of general practitioners throughout Wales. [22200]
§ Mr. HagueMy officials met representatives of the Medical Practices Committee on 31 October 1995, and will meet them again on 28 March 1996.