§ 29. Mr. Thorneasked the Secretary of State for War whether he can give any information in connection with the resignation of many auxiliary nurses from the British Red Cross and St. John Ambulance Detachment; and why Red Cross Voluntary Aid Detachment nurses are made to spend many hours washing and cleaning floors and performing other menial duties?
§ Captain MargessonThere has been a considerable number of resignations by members of Voluntary Aid Detachments, many of which are due to private reasons, such as difficulties resulting from the bombing of homes. Many are due to marriage. The duties of nursing members of Voluntary Aid Detachments are those of a probationer nurse in a civil hospital, which include washing, cleaning and general ward duties.
§ Mr. R. GibsonCan the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say approximately how many resignations have taken place?
§ Captain MargessonI am afraid I should have to ask for notice of that question.