Written question asked by Iris Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 9 February 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 24 February 2004. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Tuesday, 24 February 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what plans he has to increase the number of consultant orthopaedic surgeons in Northern Ireland. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mrs. Iris Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to increase the number of consultant orthopaedic surgeons in Northern Ireland. [154592] Angela Smith: The number of consultant orthopaedic surgeons increased to 41 by December 2003, representing a 37 per cent. increase in five years. In recognition that there is a need to further increase the number of consultants, the number of specialist trainees has also been increased to the current level of 23, an increase of over 50 per cent. in five years.

Secondary information