HC Deb 26 October 1999 vol 336 cc851-2W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what action he has taken to establish a scheme of statutory registration for surgical operating department practitioners. [95234]

Mr. Hutton

Under powers provided by the Health Act 1999, we are reviewing the Professions Supplementary to Medicine Act 1960. As part of that review, consideration is being given to the regulation of health professions which are not currently state registered, including operating department practitioners. The aim will be to provide for an NHS which is modern, reliable and fully responsive to patient needs. There will be full consultation before a final decision is taken.