§ 27. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Health whether he will make a statement regarding the registration of chiropodists.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThis is provided for in the draft scheme for the statutory registration of professions supplementary to medicine, which is under consideration.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopDoes the right hon. and learned Gentleman realise that local authorities can now assist voluntary bodies in developing chiropody schemes and that the imminent advent of a Labour Government will extend chiropdy services for old people? But is it not therefore important that the registration scheme, certainly for chiropodists, should be in operation as soon as possible?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithWhile it is a very pessimistic view for these elderly people if they are to await the service until a Labour Government comes in—because that will be a very long time indeed—we are awaiting comments on the scheme, and, in the light of that, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and I will review the position.
§ Mr. TurtonWill my right hon. and learned Friend realise the urgency of this matter? It is very important that chiropodists should have professional status as soon as possible. Can he give a time when he expects legislation to be introduced?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithCertainly I have in mind what my right hon. Friend has said. I cannot, however, given him a date in regard to legislation. He will appreciate that there is a very full legislative programme for this Session, and that matter has to be viewed in that context.