WELCOME FOR CONSULTANT PAY FREEZE PROPOSAL

WELCOME FOR CONSULTANT PAY FREEZE PROPOSAL

SCHEME SHOULD BE PUT ON ICE

Proposals from Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon to freeze the distinction awards paid to NHS consultants and for a UK wide review of the system have been welcomed by former GP and Lothians MSP Dr Ian McKee.

Dr McKee called for the freeze in a December debate on the Scottish budget and today welcomed the bold action from the Health Secretary.

Calling on the other UK Administrations and the medical profession to support both the freeze and review in light of the difficult financial climate Dr McKee called the move the only welcome freeze this winter.

“This is the only welcome freeze this winter. Unlike the cold weather a freeze on distinction awards for consultants would be good news in this difficult financial climate.

“The present system is unfit for purpose rewarding only the highest paid in the health service and acting as a pension top up rather than a real incentive.

“This is a UK wide system and I hope Gordon Brown and the other devolved administrations will follow the SNP’s lead and put these awards on ice while the system is reviewed

“It is ridiculous that distinction awards are only available to those who are already amongst the highest paid yet there is no scope for rewarding outstanding achievement by Scotland’s nurses or support workers.

“Nicola Sturgeon’s call for a freeze is a bold and welcome step. It should be backed by all administrations.”