Written question asked by Evan Harris (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 15 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 23 July 2002. It was answered by Lord Hutton of Furness (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 July 2002 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, pursuant to his Answer of 11th July 2002, 388 c1209W, on doctors (suspensions), for what reasons absence or special leave or gardening leave are not included in official statistics; and what guidance is issued to NHS trusts on (a) staff suspensions and (b) placing staff on special or gardening leave.

Answer: Dr. Evan Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, pursuant to his answer of 11 July 2002, Official Report, column 1209W, on doctors (suspensions), for what reasons absence or special leave or gardening leave are not included in official statistics; and what guidance is issued to NHS trusts on (a) staff suspensions and (b) placing staff on special or gardening leave. [70724] Mr. Hutton: The process of formal monitoring of suspensions lasting over six months began in March 1995, six months after the issue of HSG(94)49, the current guidance on suspension of hospital and community medical and dental staff. As a result of an undertaking to the Public Accounts Committee in April 1995, the Department monitors formal suspensions lasting over six months on a quarterly basis. This has enabled the financial implications of those suspensions to be monitored and helped to ensure that individual cases are being actively managed. Information on special leave is collected on an ad hoc basis when concerns are raised. No official guidance has been issued on the use of special or gardening leave. In December 2001, the Chief Medical Officer wrote to all national health service trusts requesting information regarding the use of this type of leave. This information is currently being analysed.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 70724; 389 c1093W;389 c1091W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Disciplinary proceedings Dental services Doctors Health professions Leave NHS trusts
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk