24. Mr. Murrayasked the Minister of Health if he is able to give the number of 1542 staff employed, male and female, in the mental hospitals in this country; to what extent there is a shortage of staff and how is the work being done; and what does he propose to do to meet such a situation.
§ Mr. WillinkI regret that I am unable to give the figures asked for but I am aware that there is a shortage of staff in most mental hospitals. In general, staffs are working longer hours and in some cases leave has been curtailed. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service is aware of the position and is taking such steps as are possible to relieve it.