To ask the Minister of Health what discussions his Department has had with Health and Social Care Trusts regarding the introduction of specialist posts following the 2021 contract negotiations.

Following the introduction of the new Specialty Doctor and Specialist contracts my Department held two workshops for employing organisations regarding the changes to the Specialty Doctor Contract and the introduction of the new specialist role. My officials also attend weekly meetings with employers where all operational issues relating to the implementation of the new contracts are discussed. A SAS implementation group has been set up with the first meeting due to take place on 5th January 2022, membership of the group includes representatives from employing organisations, the British Medical Association, and the Department.

The creation of new roles appropriate to the Specialist grade is a matter for each employing Trust, depending on their individual service requirements.