§ 69. Mr. HAYESasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the conditions existing at the infirmary of the Guildford Union; 2503 whether he is aware that 15 of the nursing staff resigned during August and September this year; that six are under compulsory resignation now; and that five have tendered their resignations in sympathy with their colleagues; and will he consider the holding of an inquiry by an inspector of the Ministry at an early date?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI think that the hon. Member has been misinformed. Certain changes in the staff of this infirmary are necessitated by its conversion into a training school for nurses. The total number of nurses who have left, or received notice on this account, is 12. One, in addition, has been dismissed for insubordination. I see no grounds at present for the holding of such inquiry as is suggested.
§ Mr. HAYESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that two years ago an inquiry was held, and that the conditions then found to exist have not been improved upon; and that in the case of these resignations the nurses have no remedy unless the Minister orders some inquiry to be made?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI think the hon. Member must be entirely misinformed as to the reason for the resignations, which is that this institution is being converted into a training school for nurses.
§ Mr. HAYESIf I supply the right hon. Gentleman with information that the case is otherwise, will he do his best to have the matter reconsidered and an inquiry held?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI shall certainly be prepared to look into any representation that the hon. Member may make.