§ Linda PerhamTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance he issues to NHS authorities and trusts on the practice of compulsory retirement based solely on age. [20486]
§ Mr. HuttonI apologise to my hon. Friend for the delay in responding to this question. I refer her to the reply that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State gave my hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool, North and Fleetwood (Mrs. Humble) on 5 March 2002,Official Report, column 92W.
Although there is no central guidance on compulsory retirement based solely on age, NHS organisations and their staff are encouraged to explore the available flexibilities and opportunities. The NHS pension scheme allows staff approaching retirement age and beyond to work more flexibly. This will enable the NHS to keep experienced staff, and their invaluable skills and knowledge.
In the case of general practitioners health authorities are required under regulation 7(11) of the National Health Service (General Medical Services) Regulations 1992 to remove from their medical list any doctor who has attained the age of 70 years.