§ Tony BaldryTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how many national training numbers have been issued in paediatrics in the last 12 months; and how many he expects to issue in the next 12 months; [156456]
(2) what estimate he has made of the number of national training numbers needed in paediatrics to comply with the EU Working Time Directive; what advice he has received from the Royal College of Paediatrics on this; and if he will make a statement. [156457]
§ Mr. HuttonIn 2003–04, 100 locally funded national training numbers (NTNs) were allocated to paediatrics. In 2004–05, a further 15 locally funded NTNs will be allocated. In addition, an extra 155 NTNs have been proposed for paediatrics through other initiatives.
1133WTo support the implementation of the Working Time Directive (WTD), strategic health authorities have agreed further additional training places with trusts, for which we will issue NTNs. The number of these is not yet available.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has carried out a survey looking into WTD compliance within hospitals providing acute services for children. The Department is considering the results of the survey.