37. Colonel A. Evansasked the Minister of Health how many friendly alien and Allied alien doctors with special qualifications are still unemployed; how many Czechs with medical degrees in their own country are now studying for English degrees; whether this necessity must now be imposed on qualified men, particularly since special scholarships had to be granted to enable them to study; whether there is a surplus of army doctors with the Czech Army; and whether, in view of the shortage of doctors, particularly in reception areas, the fact that alien doctors are barred from private practice, and the appeal that has been made to the United States of America for 1,000 doctors to serve with the British Red Cross, he will take steps immediately to absorb all unemployed doctors, irrespective of nationality, and permit alien doctors already qualified in their own country to practise without taking English degrees?
§ Miss HorsbrughI am not in possession of the information requested in the first, second and fourth parts of the Question. As to the third and fifth parts, the Medical Practitioners (Temporary Registration) Order, 1941, provides a wide field of employment for American and Allied alien doctors and refugee doctors of enemy nationality in hospitals and other approved institutions without the necessity of obtaining British medical qualifications, and their absorption into this service is proceeding steadily. I am advised that linguistic and other difficulties make it inadvisable to allow these doctors to engage in domiciliary practice.
Colonel EvansIn view of the grave shortage of doctors in this country at the present time, will the hon. Lady ensure that the services of all friendly Allied and alien doctors, who register themselves and their qualifications at the Ministry of Health, will be available in time of need?
§ Miss HorsbrughYes, Sir.
§ Sir H. Morris-JonesIs the hon. Lady aware that there is almost a complete breakdown at the present moment regarding the employment of friendly Allied and alien doctors in this country? Is she aware that there are 700 such doctors in this country, and that we are asking for 1,000 doctors from the United States? The whole thing is wrong.
§ Mr. G. StraussMay we take it that these 700 doctors will be absorbed in medical work in this country if they register and speak the language?
§ Miss HorsbrughI could not say without notice what is the number of alien doctors in this country, but I can assure hon. Members that all will be used in hospitals and institutions, and that the general scheme for reorganisation of medical practitioners is going on.
§ Sir H. Morris-JonesIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.