HC Deb 06 March 1956 vol 549 c1913
32. Mr. McGovern

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of nurses at present required in Glasgow: and what proposals are made to overcome the shortage.

Mr. J. Stuart

The total number of additional nurses in all grades currently sought by Glasgow hospitals is about 530. Recruitment to the nursing profession is stimulated by propaganda, and other measures undertaken by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service, in consultation with hospital authorities, directed particularly to fields such as mental nursing, where the need is specially great.

Mr. McGovern

Has the right hon. Gentleman considered the advisability of the recruitment of foreign labour? Is he aware that a very large number of young Italian girls could be recruited for this work?

Mr. Stuart

I must confess that I have not contemplated that idea, but I will look into the matter.