HC Deb 17 December 1953 vol 522 cc569-70
40. Mr. Snow

asked the Minister of Health whether he is satisfied with the number of newly-qualified doctors entering the two-year training period prior to qualifying for acceptance as medical officers of health.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

My right hon. Friend understands that there has recently been some increase in the numbers, but he would be glad to see a still larger number of doctors taking this qualification.

41. Mr. Snow

asked the Minister of Health to what extent the appropriate authorities are having difficulty in filling vacancies in the medical officer of health service.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

I am informed that the difficulties which were experienced shortly after the war in filling vacancies to the public health service are now much less, but my right hon. Friend is keeping the position under review.

Mr. Snow

Although the difficulties may be less, is the hon. Lady aware that they are still causing considerable concern in responsible professional circles, that in the past there has been a tendency in the medical profession rather to look down upon the doctor who goes into public service of this type, and that this situation should be rectified by Government encouragement?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

The hon. Member will be aware that post-graduate training is under the universities and does not come under the Ministry, but we have had not representations from local authorities, county councils, or the like, that they are experiencing any great difficulty in filling vacancies of this kind. Were we to receive such representations they would be seriously considered.

Dr. King

Is the Minister satisfied that the salaries paid to medical officers of health compare fairly with those earned by the profession outside and by other local government officers?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

That is very much another question and has many implications. Perhaps the hon. Member would like to put down a Question.