§ Mr. ViggersTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what will be the cost of creating a new chief of staff post on the Surgeon General's staff; and if he will make a statement on the nature of the employment that will be covered under that part of his remit which involves the implementation of the changes following the strategic review of defence medical services. [70879]
§ Mr. SpellarThe upgrading of the Chief of Staff post in the Surgeon General's Department will not result in any additional personnel cost as the new incumbent will replace the current Chief of Staff who, as a medical504W officer, is in receipt of additional remuneration to reflect his professional qualifications. The new Chief of Staff's responsibilities will include ensuring that the changes to the Defence Medical Services announced by the Secretary of State for Defence on 14 December 1998 are implemented expeditiously and cost-effectively.