HC Deb 10 July 1956 vol 556 c168
4. Mr. Nairn

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will issue a circular to regional hospital boards directing them to allow nurses to draw holiday pay in advance.

Mr. J. Stuart

Hospital authorities have discretion to make reasonable advances of pay to nurses going on annual leave. I do not think it would be appropriate for me to issue a directive on a matter of this kind.

Mr. Nairn

Would not my right hon. Friend agree that members of the nursing profession need and deserve holiday pay in advance probably more than the members of any other profession? If he agrees, would he then encourage hospital boards to grant holiday pay to nurses before their holidays?

Mr. Stuart

Hospital authorities have discretion. They have been well aware of the position since 1951, when they were so informed.

Miss Herbison

Might it not help hospital boards to do what the hon. Gentleman is asking if the Secretary of State were to send out a circular? Teachers have their holiday pay in advance, and have had for a long time.

Mr. Stuart

One must leave some discretion to the authorities. It is not that I am opposed to the hon. Lady's suggestion.