HC Deb 28 January 1943 vol 386 cc585-6
2. Sir Francis Fremantle

asked the Minister of Labour, whether, in view of the grave shortage of practising midwives, and the serious consequences likely to arise, he will take steps to direct qualified midwives, not at present acting as such, into midwifery practice during the war?

Mr. Bevin

I am aware of the shortage of practising midwives, and I am in consultation at the present time with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, and the nursing and midwifery organisa- tions concerned with a view to securing a better supply and distribution both of midwives and of nurses.

Sir F. Fremantle

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the appeal that has been made by the Minister of Health to nursing associations for midwives to remain as midwives has been quite useless, and that many young nurses who are trained as midwives volunteer, after their training is finished, for general military service, or go into munitions? Could my right hon. Friend not direct them to practise as midwives at present?

Mr. Bevin

That is a matter which my right hon. Friend and I are attempting to organise.

Viscountess Astor

Have not most members of the medical profession treated midwives so badly up to now that women are not prepared to work as midwives?

Sir F. Fremantle

That is not the least bit true. The medical profession recognise the advantage of their services.