HC Deb 07 December 1959 vol 615 c17
31. Mr. Brockway

asked the Minister of Health when he proposes to increase the salaries of certificated medical gymnasts employed in rehabilitation centres and other branches of the National Health Service.

Mr. Walker-Smith

I have approved a Whitley Council agreement by which the salaries of remedial gymnasts are increased with effect from 1st October, 1959, and the relevant circular was sent to employing authorities on 27th November.

Mr. Brockway

Is it not the case that, even with the increases, the salaries vary only from £600 to £830 a year? In view of the fact that these are all qualified P.T. instructors who subsequently have to go through nine months' instruction, with a refresher course each year, and in view of the dedicated service they are giving by rehabilitation, does the Minister think these increases are adequate?

Mr. Walker-Smith

These are the increases which arose from the Whitley Agreement which resulted from a proposal for revaluation in the context of the circumstances which the hon. Member has described. Increases varied from £15 to £150, or, in percentages, from 3 per cent. to 22 per cent. The increases are, therefore, substantial.

Mr. Brockway

Is it not a fact that the chartered society is appealing against this decision?

Mr. Walker-Smith

I did not know that, but there is, of course, provision for arbitration in respect of any dissatisfied body. These are substantial increases, as I have indicated.