Written question asked by Tim Loughton (Conservative) on Monday, 17 December 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 January 2002. It was answered by Lord Hutton of Furness (Labour) on Thursday, 10 January 2002 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, how many doctors have been (a) disciplined and (b) sacked for (i) drug-taking offences and (ii) stealing medical drugs in each year since 1997. - (Holding answer 8 January 2002).

Answer: Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many doctors have been (a) disciplined and (b) sacked for (i) drug-taking offences and (ii) stealing medical drugs in each year since 1997. [24305] Mr. Hutton: [holding answer 8 January 2002]: The Department does not routinely collect information regarding the disciplinary proceedings carried out in national health service organisations. Disciplinary action is a matter for local employers. NHS employers have a responsibility to investigate alleged breaches of acceptable standards by staff, and to consider whether any disciplinary action is required as a result of such allegations.

Secondary information