§ 41. Mr. McKayasked the Minister of Health, with regard to current consideration of chiropody treatment at health service clinics, what progress has been made with a registration scheme for all chiropodists taking part in the service on the lines suggested by their association.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithI would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Wythenshawe (Mrs. Hill) on 13th April.
§ Mr. McKayCould the Minister explain what is the point of dispute between himself and this association? Is it that the Minister thinks there is not sufficient skill required and, therefore, no necessity for registration? What is the point of dispute between himself and this organisation?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithWe are at one in thinking that there should be a registration scheme. The difference at present arises between the point of view of the medical auxiliaries, on the one hand, and the Joint Consultants' Committee, on the other. It is that difference I have been seeking to help to resolve.
§ Dame Irene WardHave any further steps been taken since the Answer given by my right hon. and learned Friend to my hon. Friend the Member for Wythenshawe (Mrs. Hill)? Is he aware that we are all very anxious to know of progress being made and that it would be better, perhaps, to state that than to go backwards when no one knows what has happened from the start?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithThere is no question of going backwards. We are going forwards and trying to obtain agreement between the points of view of the medical auxiliaries and the Joint Consultants' Committee. The Secretary of State and I are now considering the points put forward by the Joint Consultants' Committee in this general context.