asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what additional payments she has authorised to gynaecologists in respect of sterilisation of women; and if she will make a statement.

The new scheme was introduced after lengthy negotiations with the medical profession throughout which it refused to participate in the expansion of hospital-based family planning unless it received separate payment for it. As a result, and to avoid further delay in the operation of a comprehensive service including specialist provision at hospitals, the Health Departments reluctantly agreed to a scheme, introduced on 31st July this year. Under this scheme area health authorities will, as funds permit, arrange with gynaecologists or other consultants for the sterilisation of women at a fee per case of female sterilisation performed (i) as a separate procedure—£22; or (ii) during the course of another procedure—£14·70. A fee is not payable where sterilisation is consequential upon a procedure not performed for the purposes of family planning.A number of other hospital family planning procedures will attract fees under the new arrangements.