The authors present the results of a postal questionnaire about possible advantages, disadvantages, and logistics of a single grade training scheme.

Replies were received from 13 recently appointed consultants and 42 otolaryngologists in training.

The majority (43) were in favour of a single grade training scheme, although it was felt that certain potential problems would need to be carefully addressed, particularly the potential for narrow clinical exposure and the difficulties inherent in early selection for higher surgical training.

It was also felt that for such schemes to work, considerable extra consultant time would need to be set aside purely for teaching.

The respondents'ideal training scheme is outlined.