Nurses

HC Deb 22 July 1957 vol 574 cc27-8

41. Mrs. Slater

asked the Minister of Health to whom the General Nursing Council's inspectors report if adverse conditions are found relating to accommodation for nurses; and what steps are taken to see that defects are remedied.

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

The inspectors report to the Council, who bring any adverse crticisms to the notice of the hospital authorities concerned.

Mrs. Slater

Does the Minister realise that there are very many cases of inspections being made at which adverse reports obviously would result and then for a very long time nothing is done? What pressure can be brought to bear on hospital management committees to see that such adverse conditions are remedied in the interest of recruitment for the nursing profession?

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

I suggest that the hon. Lady puts down a Question on cases she has in mind. I think that would be the best course.

42. Mrs. Slater

asked the Minister of Health why a nurse who has her State registered nurse qualification but then goes on to do her midwifery course must return to student's pay.

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

This is in accordance with the agreements of the Nurses and Midwives Whitley Council.

Mrs. Slater

Could not this be looked at again, because large numbers of nurses who are anxious to take a midwifery course are reluctant to do so, in view of the high cost of living, because they have to go back on students' pay? In view of the shortage of midwives and facilities for midwifery training, is it not advisable that a review of this situation should be undertaken?

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

The training allowances are fixed by the Nurses and Midwives Whitley Council, and it is not a matter in which my right hon. Friend can intervene. There is, of course, a small differentiation—extra pay—for those already qualified. I should also point out that the arrangements do not deter registered nurses taking midwifery training. The numbers coming forward are quite enough to meet the needs of the midwifery profession, but the numbers going on to practise after qualification are not sufficient.