HC Deb 01 August 1946 vol 426 c1204
37. Colonel Wheatley

asked the Minister of Health if, in view of the shortage of nurses, he will take steps to popularise the profession of male nurses and encourage, by generous financial assistance, those who are already undergoing training and those who are desirous of entering the profession, many of whom have had some training in the Services and are anxious to qualify as S.R.N.

Mr. Bevan

Yes, Sir, the wider employment of male nurses is most desirable, and I have already urged hospital authorities to make the fullest possible use of their services. Higher salaries have recently been announced for all grades of male nurse, including male student nurses and special allowances are paid to men who have been on war service.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there has been an increase in recent years in the number of male nurses?

Mr. Bevan

Yes, Sir, there has been a substantial increase.