§ 39. Mr. Vernon Bartlettasked the Minister of Health how many ambulance stations in the London area are fully staffed on the scale laid down at the beginning of the war; and how many resignations and enlistments have taken place in the last six months?
§ Mr. E. BrownThe establishment of the London auxiliary ambulance service is not laid down in terms of stations, the staff of which may vary according to a number of circumstances. The total staff of the service is somewhat below the authorised strength, but they have proved adequate to meet the calls made on them. In the six months September, 1940, to February, 1941, resignations numbered 1,268 whole-time and 357 part-time staff, while enlistments numbered 608 and 275 respectively. I am glad to take this opportunity of paying tribute to the courage and devotion which have been shown by the ambulance staffs, in maintaining this service.
§ Mr. BartlettDoes not the right hon. Gentleman feel that the best way of paying a tribute to these people is to see that their financial payment is slightly better? Does he know that there is a good deal of discontent and that women ambulance drivers, who are running a very great risk, are paid only £2 5s. a week?
§ Mr. BrownPerhaps the hon. Member is overlooking the fact that the scale has recently been increased?