asked the Minister of Health how many merit awards to consultants have been withdrawn since the inception of the awards scheme.

None, Sir.

Is the Minister satisfied that a system which appoints a considerable number of people to a position of advantage and yet removes none of them is working satisfactorily?

If the work of a consultant deteriorates unacceptably the question which surely arises is that of fitness for further employment rather than that of his continuing to hold an award. The put back The award continuing after the consultant remains in his post beyond the normal retiring age has been the subject of discussion with the profession, but no decision has yet been reached.