RCS President to chair Working Time Directive Taskforce

It has been announced today that Professor Norman Williams, President of the Royal College of Surgeons, is to chair an independent taskforce on the implementation of the Working Time Directive and its impact on the NHS and health professionals.

The taskforce, which includes representation from across the medical profession, will review the evidence on the effect the regulations are having on the delivery of patient care and the training of doctors.

Professor Norman Williams, President of the Royal College of Surgeons, said:

“This is a vital piece of work and I am pleased to be chairing this taskforce. There is a need for a deeper examination of the evidence on the impact and implementation of the reduced working hours on the delivery of care and training of doctors; the formation of this group will allow this. We will then produce expert advice and practical solutions to the Secretary of State with the aim of improving patient care.”

Terms of reference for the Working Time Directive Taskforce

Notes to editors

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