(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations give Health Authorities two additional functions. First they are given the function of proposing to the Secretary of State (where they consider it appropriate to do so) schemes for making payments to general dental practitioners in the Authority’s area to increase the provision of general dental services there. Secondly, where the Secretary of State has approved such a scheme the Health Authority is given the function of implementing it.

The functions conferred by these Regulations are to be carried out in accordance with Directions given by the Secretary of State under section 17 of the National Health Service Act 1977.