HC Deb 23 October 1956 vol 558 c478
42. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has yet considered the recent Report of the Working Party on Health Visitors; and if he will state the policy of the Government in relation to the recommendations in that Report, particularly those recommending an immediate review of salary scales.

Mr. J. Stuart

All the recommendations in the Report will be considered carefully in consultation with the local authorities and the other interests concerned.

Mr. Hughes

Does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that this is an important matter? Does he realise that health visitors have to pass more examinations than have nurses and are paid smaller salaries? Does he realise that there is an urgent grievance awaiting urgent treatment? What is the right hon. Gentleman doing about it?

Mr. Stuart

I agree that it is important, but this is a long and very detailed Report, and it takes time to consider it. As to the salaries, the Nurses and Midwives Whitley Council will no doubt have to be consulted.

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