asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will make a statement on the progress of group practice.

In 1966, 30 per cent. of general medical practitioners in England practised in groups of three or more principals. I am pleased to say that by 1972 the proportion had increased to almost 60 per cent.

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Has he any further plans to encourage this trend?

Yes. The existing incentives towards group practice encourage, and will no doubt continue to encourage, general practitioners to get together.

What proportion of the doctors who practise in group practices practise from health centres?

One-sixth.