asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if the doctor's bill of £59·20, particulars of which have been sent to him by the hon. Member for Brent, South, falls within the scale agreed by his Department with the British Medical Association; and, if not, what measures can be taken to secure recovery.

I have been asked to reply.The doctor's bill in question was paid by the Metropolitan Police and, following an order of the Willesden magistrates' court, the cost was recovered from the accused. I understand that the Commissioner is satisfied that the bill was in accordance with the scale of police surgeons' fees laid down by the joint negotiating committee for the fees of doctors assisting local authorities.