§ 1. Mr. Swinglerasked the Minister of Health if he is aware of the shortage of dispensers in the National Health Service; and what steps he is taking to overcome it.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. Dennis Vosper)I assume the hon. Member has in mind pharmacists, particularly in hospitals. Salary scales have recently been raised, and I am considering giving guidance to hospital authorities on the more efficient use of pharmaceutical staffs.
§ Mr. SwinglerWhilst thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware that I have in mind dispensers in all types of establishments, including shops? Is the right hon. Gentleman further aware that in some places, notably in Newcastle-under-Lyme, this shortage is 2 becoming severe? Will he take the best possible action he can to speed up the training of such people?
§ Mr. VosperI do not deny that there is a shortage of all types of pharmacists, and, to some extent, of dispensers, but the shortage of pharmacists is the most acute. I have the matter in mind.