HC Deb 02 March 1959 vol 601 cc15-6
14. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Minister of Health what steps he will take to ensure that sufficient doctors qualified in Great Britain or with some post-graduate training in Britain are available to fill outstanding vacancies up to and including registrar grade in the hospital service.

Mr. Walker-Smith

I do not consider that special steps are needed. The number of doctors available for civilian employment will increase between now and 1962 as the number of medical officers needed by the Armed Forces declines.

Mr. Robinson

Is the Minister aware that, for example, in a hospital in Wales the authorities have been unable for five years to recruit any British qualified doctor for the positions of house surgeon and house physician, and that there is a very well known hospital in London where it has been found impossible to fill the post of orthopaedic house surgeon? In view of those circumstances, does not the right hon. and learned Gentleman think that some urgent action is required?

Mr. Walker-Smith

I will consider the question of the individual hospitals mentioned by the hon. Gentleman if he cares to send me particulars. Generally speaking, the position is improving. There has been a substantial intake in the general hospital medical services for England and Wales in the last two years. In 1956–57, the latest period for which figures are available, the number is appreciably more than was visualised as necessary by the Willink Committee.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Will the Minister assure the House that he is doing nothing to recommend the adoption of the proposal of the Willink Committee that there should be a reduction in the numbers coming into the medical training section?

Mr. Walker-Smith

I defined the position regarding the Willink Committee at the time when it reported. Obviously I am now keeping an eye on the general trends. As I say, the intake in 1956–57 has been higher than the Committee visualised as being necessary. That fact, together with the increasing number of doctors from the Armed Forces becoming available, should meet the question which the hon. Gentleman has in mind.