HC Deb 04 February 1957 vol 564 cc10-1
52. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the shortage of qualified public health inspectors, in post, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne; and what assistance he is prepared to offer to the local authority concerned in the matter.

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

No, Sir. My right hon. Friend has received no representation on this matter. I cannot offer assistance in filling a particular post, but I am confident that the steps to be taken by the new Public Health Inspectors Education Board will generally encourage future recruitment.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the very serious situation developing in Newcastle because of the great shortage of staff for this work, particularly for food inspection and now for smoke inspection? In view of the situation, which is rapidly becoming serious, will he make some inquiries into the matter?

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

As I said in reply to the main Question, we have received no representation. I think that the hon. Member would be interested to know that 40 per cent. more recruits to this profession qualified in 1956 compared with previous years, and the total deficiency out of 4,700 posts is 240.