HC Deb 29 October 1956 vol 558 c1064
44. Mr. E. Johnson

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that junior hospital medical staff have no direct access to, nor negotiating powers with, his Department ; and if he will arrange for them to be represented on the Joint Negotiating Committee.

Mr. Turton

There is a joint negotiating body for all grades of hospital medical staff. The composition of the Staff Side of this body is a matter for the profession itself.

Mr. Johnson

Would not the Minister agree that it is grossly unfair that these doctors, Who are more than 50 per cent. of the hospital service and practically do the bulk of the work, are not represented on the committee and, therefore, cannot be heard?

Mr. Turton

It would be improper if I were to interfere with the composition of the Staff Side.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Is not the Minister taking legal advice at the highest level about the way to concede a £50 million wage claim for hospital and family doctors? What is happening about this legal advice?

Mr. Turton

That is another question.