§ 38. Sir Robert Rankinasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the increasing shortage of trained nurses and probationers; and whether, in view of the great expansion of the hospital system and public health services of the country in the last 10 years, he can state what steps are being taken to ensure an adequate supply of nurses during future years?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir. I have been informed that there is a shortage of nurses relatively to the increased demands for their services. The matter is receiving my close attention and I understand that the associations representing local authorities are in communication with the General Nursing Council regarding certain measures for meeting the situation.
§ Miss WilkinsonHas the Minister called the attention of the voluntary hospitals to the necessity for reducing the hours and increasing the wages of their nurses, if they wish to get a sufficient number?
§ Sir K. WoodThis is an important matter, and I think that many hospitals are doing what they can about it.