HC Deb 22 July 1943 vol 391 c1067
36. Mr. Lipson

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the information sent to him relating to a shortage of 27 midwives and four sisters at maternity hospitals and for domiciliary visits in the county of Gloucester; and, as this is resulting in a lowered standard of care of patients in hospitals and in their homes, will he take steps to remedy the deficiency?

Mr. E. Brown

As my hon. Friend is aware, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service is, in consultation with me, taking measures with a view to relieving the present shortage of midwives. Following a recent registration, women with midwifery qualifications are being interviewed and those who are suitable are being submitted for employment where they are most urgently required. I understand that some assistance has already been given under these arrangements to the midwifery services in Gloucestershire, and the needs of this area will certainly be kept in mind. I hope that the publication of the Report of the Midwives Salaries Committee, about which I made a statement a few minutes ago, will help to encourage recruitment to the midwifery profession.

Mr. Lipson

Will it be possible for one of the officers of the Department to go to the medical officer of health for the county to see whether anything else can be done?

Mr. Brown

I will consider that but we have already information on the deficiency.

Mr. De la Bère

Is my right hon. Friend aware that conditions are very bad in this respect in many parts of Worcestershire?