HC Deb 22 March 1951 vol 485 c2556
8. Mr. David Griffiths

asked the Minister of Education how many school dentists are employed for the school population in the Rother Valley area, part- or full-time.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Education (Mr. Hardman)

There is no school dentist at present in this area, but emergency treatment is available at the dental clinic at Rawmarsh.

Mr. Griffiths

Is my hon. Friend aware that there are over 12,000 school children in this area, and that for a considerable time there has been no dentist at all? Is it not possible for him to get a dentist for at least one day per week for these schools?

Mr. Hardman

In the past this area has been served by a visiting dentist with portable equipment. I am not suggesting for one moment that this represents all we should give. I am, however, surprised at the figure my hon. Friend gives of some 12,000 children unserved by the dental service in his area. The nearest estimate I have is a figure of 8,000, but I quite agree that something must be done about the matter.