Written question asked by Phyllis Starkey (Labour) on Thursday, 27 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 7 June 2004. It was answered by Lord Hutton of Furness (Labour) on Monday, 7 June 2004 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what language tests are required for doctors employed by the NHS who were trained in other EU member states.

Answer: Dr. Starkey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what language tests are required for doctors employed by the NHS who were trained in other EU member states. [177456] Mr. Hutton: Doctors who are nationals of European Economic Area states do not have to undertake English language tests in order to register with the General Medical Council. It is the responsibility of employers to ensure that all staff have the necessary language skills to carry out their duties safely, regardless of which country they come from.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 177456; 422 c150W
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Assessments Doctors Languages EU nationals English language NHS Migrant workers
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk