HC Deb 23 July 2004 vol 424 cc774-5W
Mr. Burstow

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what steps he is taking to make academic dentistry more attractive to dental graduates. [181641]

Ms Rosie Winterton

I have been asked to reply.

On 16 July, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State, announced that we are to provide 170 additional training places for undergraduates in dentistry from October 2005. The increase will be supported by capital investment of £80 million over the next four years and additional revenue funds reaching £29 million by 2010–11. Not only will this expansion increase the pool of dentists from which trainees are drawn, but, by improving the environment in dental schools and teaching hospitals, it will make academic dentistry a more attractive career.