HC Deb 21 January 1954 vol 522 cc1181-2
22. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Health whether agreement has been reached regarding the pay of fully-trained mental hospital nurses; and when the last pay increase was awarded to them.

Mr. Iain Macleod

This matter has gone to arbitration, and I understand that the hearing by the Industrial Court is to take place early next month. The last pay increase had effect from the 1st June, 1952.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Will the right hon. Gentleman let it be known that he is anxious to get an early settlement of this matter and that he realises that until this is undertaken we have little chance of recruiting the excellent staff we so urgently need in our mental hospitals?

Mr. Macleod

I am, of course, anxious to see a settlement but as the hon. Member knows, it would not be right to comment on negotiations at the present stage of this claim.