§ 47. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Health what reductions in hospital staff have been secured as a result of his circular on economy in manpower of 5th December, 1952.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodReturns of the staffing position at 31st March, 1953, are still being received, and it is too early to say what reductions of hospital staff have been possible during the period in question.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopCan the right hon. Gentleman say when he expects to be in a position to give any information? Will it be in a fortnight or a month?
§ Mr. MacleodI think it will probably be longer than that, but I must say that, in the quarter referred to, any reductions are bound to be negligible, in view of the fact that this new manpower policy was introduced only at the end of the year.